Chelsea appear primed to hijack Inter Milan’s pursuit of Atalanta defender Marco Palestra.
The 21-year-old Italy international, who is a full back and a wing back, spent the last season on loan at Cagliari. While there, he made 37 appearances and was named Serie A defender of the year in the end-of-campaign awards.
Inter Milan have been in contact for the Italy international 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, according to sources, are ready to swoop for Palestra at speed.
It is understood that the Blues expect to complete a deal in the next 24 hours. Manchester City are among the others who have also been keeping a watchful eye on developments.
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.
Xabi Alonso is due to officially begin work as Chelsea manager as of July 1.
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