Chelsea agree deal to sign Marco Palestra after hijacking Inter Milan move | OneFootball

Chelsea have agreed a deal with Atalanta to sign right-back Marco Palestra, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Inter Milan had been leading the race to sign Palestra before Chelsea swooped in to hijack the deal. The Blues are set to pay €55 million for the Italian defender, surpassing Inter’s €50m offer.

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is said to have played a key role in securing the deal, with Palestra now set to become the first signing under the him.

Palestra enjoyed his breakthrough season on loan at Cagliari last term. He made 37 league appearances and registered five goal involvements, earning the Serie A Best Defender award.

Speaking about his qualities, Italian football writer James Horncastle told The Athletic:

“Palestra was a revelation on loan from Atalanta at Cagliari this season. He is tall and well-built, but what stands out most is his speed.”

He made his senior international debut for Italy in the World Cup play-offs semi-final against Northern Ireland in March.

Palestra’s signing shows Alonso’s plans

Palestra’s imminent arrival suggests that Alonso plans to return to a three-man defence at Chelsea.

The 44-year-old used the system to great success at Bayer Leverkusen, where he won the Bundesliga title, although he opted for a back four at Real Madrid.

Palestra primarily featured as a right-wing back for Cagliari last season, which further explains Chelsea’s decision to sign him. The Italian is expected to be the first-choice right-wing back.

Captain Reece James’ injury history makes him unreliable for that role. The England international will likely feature as the right-sided centre-back.

Palestra’s signing could affect Malo Gusto’s future at Chelsea. The France international has already been linked with Manchester City.

Stats from transfermarkt.com