Barcelona ready to compete with Arsenal, Man City in race to sign Serie A fullback | OneFootball

Barcelona’s current season has shown them how they lack depth in certain positions on the field, with the full-back department being one such.

Joao Cancelo’s arrival in the summer served as a major turning point on that front, especially given how the Portuguese star can play both at right-back and left-back.

Needless to say, there is now a feeling that something must be done about the long-term security in that department and Mundo Deportivo reveal that the Catalans have identified a young Italian talent for the same.

A 21-year-old gem

Indeed, as reported by the Spanish outlet, Barcelona have intensified their scouting on Marco Palestra, who is contractually bound to Atalanta but is playing on loan at Cagliari.

The 21-year-old full-back is capable of playing on both the right and the left side of defence, and his positive displays even earned him a national team call-up recently.

Palestra’s market value has grown ten-fold. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

In less than a year, Palestra’s market value has increased tenfold from €3 million to €30 million and he has earned interest from several top European clubs.

Manchester City, Arsenal, and Juventus are all in the running to sign the player in June, with even Inter Milan reportedly interested. Barcelona now appear on that list as well as they see him as the perfect long-term full-back option.

What Barcelona admire about Palestra is his offensive output and ability to play with both feet. His dribbling and ability to progress the ball are special, and Barcelona value that he can inflict danger on both flanks.

He may not be a defensive powerhouse, but his profile suits Hansi Flick’s attacking-based football much like it did for Joao Cancelo.