Chelsea are on the verge of announcing their first signing of the Xabi Alonso era, with Atalanta full-back Marco Palestra set to join the club. Standard Sport understands that the 21-year-old will sign a six-year contract running until 2032, with the Blues holding an option to extend it by a further year through to June 2033.
Deal Details and Fee
The Premier League side is close to finalising a deal worth around £45 million for the defender. Inter Milan were initially the frontrunners to sign Palestra, but Chelsea hijacked the move and moved quickly to reach an agreement with Atalanta, convincing the player to move to London. The Serie A side could not match the offer or wages being proposed by Chelsea, even though Palestra will fit into the club's bonus-incentivised wage structure. The transfer is now almost complete.
Palestra's Versatility
Chelsea appreciate Palestra's ability to play as a right wing-back as well as a right-back, and the fact that he can also deputise on the left when needed. This versatility is seen as a key asset for new manager Xabi Alonso.
Further Transfer Activity
Standard Sport reported last week that Chelsea are expected to make multiple first-team signings this summer, at least two of which are to be top players able to come straight into the starting lineup. Meanwhile, Italian club Como have expressed interest in Chelsea centre-back Trevoh Chalobah and have approached the Blues about a potential deal. Chelsea are willing to sell Chalobah this summer for the right price. He is currently away on international duty with England at the World Cup.
