Liverpool Are Set To Rival Barcelona For This Serie A Full-Back: What Will He Bring To Anfield? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Fichajes stated that Liverpool are set to rival Barcelona for Atalanta full-back Marco Palestra, who is currently playing on loan at Cagliari. It has been mentioned that the Reds are eyeing a move to bring the Italian talent to Anfield this summer.

Palestra’s Impressive Loan Spell At Cagliari

Palestra has enjoyed a decent run of form while on loan at Cagliari as he has produced a run of eye-catching displays for them in Serie A. The 21-year-old has found the back of the net once and grabbed four assists in 32 matches for the Italian club this season across various competitions.

The Italian right-back is currently one of the most talented young full-backs in Serie A. Therefore, it is no surprise that the Reds are in the running to land him later this year.

His current contract at his parent club, Atalanta, will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it difficult for Liverpool to sign him on the cheap in the upcoming transfer window.

FLORENCE, ITALY – JANUARY 24: Marco Palestra of Cagliari Calcio reacts during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Cagliari Calcio at Artemio Franchi on January 24, 2026 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

What Will Palestra Bring To Liverpool?

Palestra is a solid tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to earn the ball back for his team when defending inside his half. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when required and can create the odd chance for his teammates from the wide areas.

The Italian sensation is primarily a right-back but can also serve as a left-sided wide player or play as a right-winger if required. Standing at 1.86m, he is a strong presence in the air as well. However, it remains to be seen whether he can adapt to the physicality and high intensity of the Premier League if the Reds manage to bring him on board this off-season.

We can expect Palestra to bring more quality and depth to Liverpool head coach Arne Slot’s defensive department. He is good enough to fight with Jeremie Frimpong for a regular starting role at Anfield next season.

At 21, the future looks quite bright for Palestra as long as he continues to improve with each year. Therefore, Slot would be wise to go all out to bring him to Anfield in the summer transfer period.