Chelsea appear set to secure one of the most eye-catching transfers of the summer after moving ahead of both Manchester City and Inter Milan in the race to sign Atalanta full-back Marco Palestra.
The west London club have acted decisively to place themselves in pole position for the highly rated youngster, with transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano reporting that an agreement between Chelsea and Atalanta is now virtually complete.
Palestra has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after young defenders following a series of impressive performances in Italy.
His versatility, athleticism and ability to operate on either flank have attracted interest from several elite clubs, but Chelsea’s willingness to meet Atalanta’s demands appears to have made the difference.
According to Romano, negotiations have advanced significantly, with only the final formalities remaining before the move can be officially confirmed.
“Chelsea are closing every detail of the deal for Marco Palestra,” Romano said on YouTube.
“A ‘here we go’ is coming! Chelsea and Atalanta have an agreement in place for a transfer fee, a total package over €50 million plus a sell-on clause. So Chelsea have accepted to include also a sell-on clause as part of the deal.
“Atalanta wanted this sell-on clause from Inter at the beginning and now also from Chelsea, because they believe that Palestra one day could be worth well in excess of €55m or €60m, and so they wanted this sell-on clause to be included. And now everything is in place on the transfer fee and on the sell-on clause.”
The inclusion of the sell-on clause proved to be a crucial element of discussions.
Atalanta’s hierarchy are convinced that the defender’s value could increase substantially in the coming years and were determined to protect their long-term interests.
Alonso Influence and City’s Interest in Gusto
Another notable aspect of the transfer saga was the involvement of Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso.
The Spaniard is understood to have personally spoken with the player during the negotiations, helping to reinforce the club’s sporting vision.
Romano revealed that Alonso’s participation was viewed as a significant factor during discussions.
“Also, Xabi Alonso got involved in this deal. Alonso had a direct conversation with Palestra, and so for Xabi, it’s for sure a very interesting addition.”
Should the transfer be completed as expected, Chelsea would add another highly regarded young player to a squad already packed with emerging talent.
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Meanwhile, attention has also turned toward the future of Malo Gusto following suggestions that Manchester City could consider a move for the French defender.
City are entering a new era following the departure of former manager Pep Guardiola, and recruitment decisions are now being closely scrutinised.
The club seeks to remain among England’s leading contenders after surrendering the Premier League title.
Despite speculation, Romano insists there has been no formal approach from City at this stage.
“Maresca has a very good connection with Malo Gusto and appreciates the player, but at the moment, I’m not aware of Manchester City opening concrete talks or negotiations for Gusto.
“My understanding is that Manchester City appreciate the player, but at the moment they have not reached out to Chelsea in order to ask for Gusto.”
The situation remains one worth monitoring, particularly given Chelsea’s growing options in the wing-back positions.
With Palestra expected to arrive and established defenders already competing for places, decisions may eventually have to be made regarding squad balance.
Romano added: “Let’s see if a proposal comes, because now Chelsea have Palestra, who can play on the right and also on the left, but Chelsea also have Reece James and Gusto, and they are not playing European football.
“So, it’s going to be important to understand what they want to do. But for sure, the Gusto situation could be an interesting one to follow in the upcoming days and weeks.”
