From Italy: Atalanta defender reaches Manchester City agreement on personal terms | OneFootball

Manchester City have reportedly taken a significant step forward towards securing a new right-back this summer, according to new information from Italy.

While the Etihad club is simultaneously plotting a widespread strengthening of their first-team options, headlined by a potential British-record deal for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, finding a young operator at right-back has emerged as a key mission.

21-year-old Italian international full-back Marco Palestra has spent the last few months evolving into one of the single most heavily scouted defensive prospects across European football.

Having completed a strong loan at Cagliari – where he logged 37 top-flight appearances and was named Serie A Best Defender of the season – Palestra’s unique profile and versatility perfectly match Enzo Maresca’s expected outlook on his side.

With the summer transfer window officially opening this month, sporting director Hugo Viana is highly determined to finalise the signing of his key targets, which may include the Italian defender.

Man City reach agreement with Palestra

Now, according to a new report from La Repubblica and relayed by FC Inter News, Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra has ‘reached a financial agreement’ with Manchester City, but has ‘not closed the door’ on Serie A champions Inter.

The latter are said to be continuing to pursue the 21-year-old full-back and remain a desirable destination for him, although a final decision will be made by Atalanta, who remain firm on their valuation of €50 million plus a further €5 million in bonuses.

How soon could Man City finalise a deal?

Real Madrid’s recent acquisition of Denzel Dumfries has left a high-priority void on the right flank at Inter, prompting the club to launch a fierce targeting of the young Italian starlet.

However, while Inter’s executives remain locked in internal discussions over a suitable financial package, Manchester City’s vast resources mean the Premier League heavyweights could easily satisfy Atalanta’s valuation.

Should Hugo Viana utilise a reported personal terms breakthrough to close a formal club-to-club agreement, the highly-rated starlet will provide elite competitive cover alongside Matheus Nunes – who is expected to remain as City’s first-choice in the position.