Chelsea have pulled off a major transfer hijack, with Marco Palestra set to join the club from Atalanta after a verbal agreement was reached between all parties involved.
Chelsea have agreed a package worth more than 55 million euros, including a sell clause, for the Italian right wing-back, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The 21-year-old is expected to sign a long-term deal, adding another exciting young player to Xabi Alonso.
This was a bold move by Chelsea, as Inter Milan had been pushing hard to sign the Palestra.
Italian reports suggested that Inter were close to a deal, but Chelsea quickly stepped in and offered Atalanta a strong package.
Chelsea entered the race late and hijacked the move
Palestra is considered one of Italy’s most exciting young defenders.
He spent last season on loan at Cagliari, playing regularly and contributing one goal and four assists in Serie A, earning him recognition in Italy’s top team.
talkSPORT reports that Chelsea have doubled Inter’s contract offer for the player, while The Times reports that the Blues are set to pay around £47.5m for the defender.
For Alonso, the appeal is clear. Palestra can play as a right wing-back and is also comfortable playing on the opposite flank, giving Chelsea tactical flexibility in a system that can rely heavily on width and attacking full-backs.
Signs of plans under Xabi Alonso
The deal also raises questions about the current full-back group.
Reece James remains a key figure, but Chelsea need reliable depth and Maro Gusto has been linked with Manchester City.
This deal is expensive, but understandable. The Blues are not just buying a back-up, they are buying a player they believe can develop into one of the best wing-backs in Europe.
Although the deal has not been officially announced, Romano’s ‘here we go’ is clear: Chelsea beat Inter for one of Italy’s most promising defensive talents.
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