Chelsea are ready to hijack Inter Milan’s pursuit of Atalanta defender Marco Palestra and make him their first new signing of this summer.
The 21-year-old Italy international, a full back and wing back who can play on either flank, spent the last season on loan at Cagliari. While there, he was named Serie A defender of the year in the end-of-campaign awards.
Chelsea consider his versatility impressive and a tool for new manager, Xabi Alonso.
Inter Milan have been trying to finalise a deal for the last week and have offered to pay £38million plus £4.3m in add-ons – but Chelsea are willing to go to £43m or more to meet Atalanta’s valuation.
Chelsea have now entered the race and are aiming to secure him at speed. It is understood that the Blues expect to complete a deal in the next 24 hours.
Chelsea already have players arriving on pre-agreements this summer, such as Emmanuel Emegha from Strasbourg, Geovany Quenda from Sporting Lisbon, and Dastan Satpayev from Kairat.
Chelsea are looking to hijack Inter Milan’s move for £51.8million-rated defender Marco Palestra
If successful in landing Palestra, he would represent their first new signing of the summer. They have already began conducting business with Marc Cucurella sold to Real Madrid for a total package worth £51.8m.
Alonso is due to officially begin work as Chelsea manager as of July 1.
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