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Chelsea has reportedly entered the race for Italian defender Marco Palestra, initiating preliminary talks with the player's agent, according to Sky Sport Italia. The 21-year-old spent the 2025/2026 season on loan at Cagliari from Atalanta, establishing himself as one of Serie A's most promising defenders. His impressive performances have also garnered interest from other top clubs, including Inter Milan and Manchester City.
Atalanta is believed to be seeking over 50 million euros for Palestra. Sky Sport indicates that Chelsea has already contacted the player's agent, Alessandro Lucci, who also represents Arsenal's Riccardo Calafiori. Marco Palestra himself is said to prefer staying in Serie A and is initially waiting to see if Inter and Atalanta can reach an agreement on a transfer fee.
Palestra made his senior debut for the Italian national team in March of this year, earning two caps.
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