Chelsea close £47m deal for Marco Palestra

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Italian right-back Marco Palestra from Atalanta for £47 million (approximately €54.8 million). The 21-year-old has signed a six-year contract with the Blues as they prepare for their first season under Xabi Alonso.

Palestra performed modestly last season, making just nine Serie A appearances for Atalanta, spending 2025-26 on loan at Cagliari, where he made 37 appearances, scored one goal and provided four assists, as well as helping the team keep five clean sheets. His arrival comes amid rumors that Malo Gusto could leave the club, with speculation surrounding a move to Manchester City. Chelsea are also looking for a new left-back following the departure of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid in a deal worth £51.5 million (around €60 million).


Palestra mentioned Alonso's influence on his decision to join Chelsea: "It was very important. I feel a great energy from him. I am very happy to announce the signing of Italian defender, Marco Palestra!" — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) [July 1, 2026](https://www.soccernews.com/chelsea-complete-47m-palestra-deal/401294/).

"Plus, he's one of the best coaches in the world — he won at Bayer Leverkusen. It's important for me to have Xabi Alonso as a coach. I had two conversations with him and I'm very happy because he told me what he expects from me. I'm excited to start coaching at Chelsea."

Chelsea also had a bid for Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka rejected, while midfielder Enzo Fernández expressed an interest in leaving the club, being linked with a possible move to Madrid. The British team have already sold Cucurella and Tyrique George is close to a permanent deal with Everton.

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