The 21-year-old is seen as one of Europe’s most promising players. Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images
June 23, 2026 Updated 3:29 pm EDT
Chelsea’s move for Atalanta defender Marco Palestra is advancing at a rapid pace with the two clubs expected to reach an agreement within the next 24 hours.
The Italy international, who has also been of interest to Inter Milan, is heavily leaning towards Chelsea if a deal between the clubs can be found.
Palestra is a wing back who can play both sides and centrally, with his versatility making him a good fit for new manager Xabi Alonso’s system.
The 21-year-old spent last season on loan from Atalanta at Cagliari, making 37 appearances and was named Serie A defender of the year.
He has two caps for his country, having made his international debut in March of this year.
Palestra made his senior debut for Atalanta in December 2023 and has gone on to make 16 appearances for the first team.
Chelsea getting one of Italy’s brightest talents
Analysis by Italian football writer James Horncastle
For all the doom and gloom about the national team, Italy continues to produce talent that appeals to the Premier League’s elite.
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.
The defender is a powerhouse and earned his first Italy caps this season.
As with Giovanni Leoni, the centre-back who left Parma for Liverpool last summer, players who once would have gone to one of Italy’s big three are being lured to the Premier League earlier.
Jun 23, 2026
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