Chelsea Are In Talks To Land This Serie A Full-Back: What Will He Add To Alonso’s Team? | OneFootball

In a recent post on X, journalist Luca Cerchione stated that Chelsea are in talks to land Atalanta full-back Marco Palestra this summer. It has been claimed that the Blues are eyeing a move to bring the Italian talent to Stamford Bridge in this transfer period.

Palestra’s Impressive Loan Spell At Cagliari

Palestra managed to catch the eye with his performances in Serie A in the previous campaign when he put in a string of solid displays during his loan spell at Cagliari. The 21-year-old scored one goal and earned four assists in 37 matches for the Italian outfit last season across all competitions.

The Italian whizkid is currently among the best young full-backs in Serie A. Hence, Chelsea would do well to secure his services later this year.

His current contract at his parent club, Atalanta, will expire in the summer of 2029, which could make it difficult for the Blues to land him on the cheap this off-season.

CAGLIARI, ITALY – MAY 09: Marco Palestra of Cagliari warms up ahead before  during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and Udinese Calcio at Stadio Sant’Elia on May 09, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

What Will Palestra Add To Chelsea Boss Xabi Alonso’s Team?

Palestra is a good tackler of the ball and can make the odd interception for his side on the defensive end of the field. He usually puts his foot through the ball when needed and can even engineer some inviting chances for his teammates from the right flank.

The Italian sensation added a few goals and assists to his game last season. Palestra is primarily a right-back but can also operate as a left-back or as a right-sided wide player if asked to do so. However, only time will tell whether he can cope with the high intensity of the Premier League if the Blues manage to sign him this off-season.

We can expect Palestra to add more quality and depth to Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso’s defence. He is capable of competing for a regular starting place at the West London club in the coming seasons.

At 21, the future looks quite bright for Palestra as long as he continues to improve with each season. However, Alonso has to be patient with his development before he can get the best out of the gifted full-back at the West London club. All in all, Chelsea would be wise to step up their efforts to sign Palestra this summer.