Chelsea are showing serious interest in signing highly rated Italian fullback Marco Palestra from Atalanta this summer, according to Italian journalist Luca Cerchione.
The 21-year-old has firmly established himself as one of the most exciting young fullbacks in Serie A and European football following a standout breakthrough campaign last season.
Palestra initially arrived at Cagliari on loan as cover for Gabriel Zappa, but the move quickly evolved into something far more significant for the youngster.
The Italian featured in 37 of Cagliari’s 38 league matches under manager Fabio Pisacane, playing a pivotal role in the club’s survival and finishing nine points above the relegation zone.
His performances did not go unnoticed at international level, with Gennaro Gattuso handing him a place in the Italy squad during the March international break.
Palestra made his senior debut across the World Cup play-off ties against Northern Ireland and Bosnia and Herzegovina, further cementing his reputation as one of Italy’s most promising young talents.
Having now proven himself at both club and international level, Palestra is expected to attract considerable transfer interest this summer, with his Transfermarkt valuation standing at £30m.
Chelsea are exploring a move for a new left-back, and despite Palestra being a natural right-back, the club believes he can adapt seamlessly to the left position due to his versatility.
While Palestra is reportedly giving preference to Inter Milan, Chelsea have made contact with his entourage to discuss a potential transfer to Stamford Bridge, per Cerchione’s report.
A major reason the Italian is viewed as such an attractive target is his proficiency with both feet, giving him the flexibility to perform effectively on either flank in Xabi Alonso’s system.
His defensive numbers from last season further underline his quality, with Palestra averaging 7.24 duels won per match and finishing the campaign with an impressive 248 duels won overall.
That figure surpassed João Pedro’s 186, the highest total recorded by any Chelsea player last season, by 62 duels, illustrating the level of defensive output Palestra could bring to Stamford Bridge.
The 21-year-old is equally efficient in possession, posting an 85.1% pass-completion rate and registering 70 successful dribbles across the campaign to highlight his composure on the ball.
Chelsea now face a battle with Inter Milan to secure his signature, but Cerchione confirms the Blues’ interest is firmly ‘serious’ as they look to strengthen their options at fullback this summer.