Chelsea have reportedly emerged as frontrunners in the race to sign highly-rated Italian defender Marco Palestra after submitting an improved offer that surpasses Inter Milan’s proposal.
The Italy international had been widely expected to join Inter Milan following an impressive loan spell at Cagliari, with negotiations between Inter and Atalanta reportedly at an advanced stage.
However, the transfer saga has taken a dramatic turn after Chelsea FC entered the race and successfully convinced the defender to choose a move to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea Outbid Inter
According to reports from Italy, Inter had tabled an offer worth €45 million plus €5 million in add-ons and were close to reaching a final agreement with Atalanta.
Chelsea, however, are said to have significantly improved on that proposal, with reports suggesting the Premier League side are prepared to invest around €60 million to secure the defender’s signature.
The Blues' aggressive approach appears to have shifted the balance in their favour, putting them in pole position to complete one of the summer's most notable defensive signings.
Should the deal go through, Palestra would become the latest young talent to join Chelsea's ongoing youth-focused recruitment strategy under the club's current ownership.
Player Opts for Premier League Move
The transfer battle intensified after Inter Milan reportedly offered the defender a contract worth around €2.5 million per season. However, Chelsea responded with a significantly improved package.
Reports suggest Chelsea FC submitted an offer of €55 million plus €5 million in bonuses to Atalanta, surpassing Inter’s proposal by approximately €10 million.
In addition, Chelsea are believed to have offered Marco Palestra a salary between €5 million and €6 million annually, more than double the wages proposed by the Serie A side.
Although Palestra had initially been expected to remain in Italy and continue his development in Serie A, Chelsea’s improved financial package and determination to secure the deal reportedly convinced the defender to reconsider his options.
The move is said to have received strong backing from head coach Xabi Alonso, who reportedly views the young Italian as a key addition to his long-term plans at Stamford Bridge.
Inter Facing Major Setback
While Atalanta were reportedly prepared to allow the player to make the final decision regarding his future, the latest developments have left Inter increasingly doubtful of completing the transfer.
The Nerazzurri are understood to be struggling to compete with Chelsea’s financial muscle, both in terms of the transfer fee and the player's salary demands.
Should the deal be finalized, it would represent a significant transfer victory for Chelsea and further underline the club’s commitment to recruiting some of Europe’s brightest young talents.
Although no official agreement has been announced, reports indicate Chelsea are now firmly in pole position to secure Palestra’s signature ahead of Inter Milan.
