A dramatic twist has emerged regarding the future of Marco Palestra, the Italian full-back born in 2005.
Inter had accelerated talks for the Atalanta player, but now the Nerazzurri must deal with strong competition from Chelsea.
Inter officials met today with Alessandro Lucci, the agent of the Italian footballer, who returned to Atalanta after spending last season on loan at Cagliari.
Chelsea Takes the Lead
Chelsea has entered the race for Palestra in a major way, submitting a significantly higher offer for the player. The London club has reportedly offered around €5 million net per season, double the salary proposed by Inter, which had increased its offer to €2.5 million net per season.
At this point, the decision rests with the player: remain in Italy or move to England and compete in the Premier League, widely regarded as the most competitive league in the world.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Palestra has decided to accept Chelsea’s offer, catching Inter by surprise.
At Chelsea, French right-back Malo Gusto, born in 2003 and a former Lyon player, could leave the club. He has attracted interest from Manchester City, a club that had previously also been linked with Palestra.
Atalanta’s Demands
Atalanta remains in a strong negotiating position thanks to the player’s contract, which runs until June 2029. The Italian club is demanding at least €50 million to permanently sell Palestra.
During his loan spell at Cagliari last season, the Italian footballer made 37 appearances, scored 1 goal, provided 4 assists, and received 3 yellow cards. Prior to that, he had also played 16 matches for Atalanta’s first team.
Palestra has already made his debut for the Italy senior national team under Gennaro Gattuso, coming off the bench in the European World Cup 2026 qualifying playoff matches against Northern Ireland and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Marco Palestra Profile
Name: Marco Palestra
Year of Birth: 2005
Nationality: Italian
Position: Right winger / attacking right-back
Parent Club: Atalanta
Club Last Season: Cagliari (on loan)
Interested Club: Chelsea
Other Club in the Race: Inter
Contract with Atalanta: Until June 2029
Atalanta’s Asking Price: At least €50 million
Chelsea Salary Offer: Around €5 million net per season
Inter Salary Offer: Around €2.5 million net per season
Last Season with Cagliari: 37 appearances, 1 goal, 4 assists
Appearances for Atalanta: 16 first-team matches
National Team: Italy
Italy Senior Debut: Under Gennaro Gattuso
Player Profile: A young, highly dynamic player capable of covering the entire right flank, effective in both defensive and attacking phases.
Transfer Status: According to Gazzetta dello Sport, he has accepted Chelsea’s offer, while Inter has been surprised by the decision.
