Chelsea Completes £47m Marco Palestra Signing
Chelsea have finalised the acquisition of Italian right‑back Marco Palestra from Atalanta for a reported fee of around £47 million, including potential add‑ons. The 21‑year‑old has put pen to paper on a six‑year contract, with an option to extend for a further year.
First Signing Under New Manager Xabi Alonso
The deal marks Chelsea’s first transfer since Xabi Alonso was appointed head coach. Palestra revealed that the prospect of working with Alonso and the club’s ambitious project were decisive factors in his move.
“A lot of things convinced me to join Chelsea, one of the best clubs in the world,” Palestra said. “We have a talented squad, a strong team and a manager in Xabi who has already shared his vision for how we should play. I’m excited to compete in the Premier League.”
Beating Inter Milan’s Offer
Although Palestra had been linked with a return to his boyhood club Inter Milan, which reportedly tabled a £43 million bid, Chelsea acted swiftly to outbid the Nerazzurri. Italian sources indicate that the London club also presented a more attractive salary package.
Impressive Loan Spell at Cagliari
Prior to joining Chelsea, Palestra spent the 2023‑24 season on loan at Cagliari, where his performances earned him the Serie A Defender of the Year award. The standout campaign also yielded his senior debut for Italy during the World Cup play‑offs.
