Liverpool were reportedly interested in signing Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra this summer, according to a report from The Athletic.
The Merseyside club’s search for right-back reinforcements was triggered by the ongoing struggles of Jeremie Frimpong, who has failed to settle since arriving last summer.
Frimpong’s move to Liverpool came in the wake of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s high-profile departure to Real Madrid, leaving a significant gap on the right flank.
Conor Bradley represents another right-back option within the squad, but the youngster has been sidelined through injury for several months, limiting his availability.
With natural full-back options unavailable or underperforming, former manager Arne Slot was forced to deploy Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones as makeshift right-sided defenders last term.
Both Szoboszlai and Jones are midfielders by trade, making the arrangement far from ideal for a club with Liverpool’s ambitions at home and in Europe.
Jones has since left the club permanently, joining Inter Milan this summer, further reducing the depth available in wide defensive areas.
Liverpool have brought in Ronald Araujo on loan from Barcelona, a centre-back by trade who can offer cover at right-back when required.
Palestra, who spent last season on loan at Cagliari from Atalanta, made 37 Serie A appearances and contributed five goals and assists while keeping six clean sheets.
The 2026 summer window saw Palestra valued at £43 million, a figure that reflected the considerable interest he attracted from clubs across Europe.
Liverpool’s exploration of a deal ultimately proved unsuccessful, with Premier League rivals winning the race to secure the highly-rated young Italian defender.
The Reds have turned their focus back to domestic and European competition, having beaten Atletico Madrid 2-1 in their opening Champions League fixture this season.
Liverpool are next set to face a struggling Fulham side in the Premier League, as the club looks to maintain momentum on multiple fronts this campaign.