Chelsea's First New Signing Flies to London

Italian international Marco Palestra, set to join Chelsea, flew to London this evening to finalize his transfer from Atalanta.

The 21-year-old right wing-back is heading to Stamford Bridge in a deal worth 57 million euros, plus an additional 3 million in bonuses. Furthermore, Atalanta will receive 10% of any future sale of the player. Palestra is expected to sign a six-year contract, earning a net salary of 5 million euros per season. This move will make him the second most expensive Italian transfer in Premier League history, trailing only Sandro Tonali.

Earlier on Thursday, Palestra was in Rome, spending several hours at the WSA agency's office, owned by Alessandro Lucci. There, his representatives collaborated with legal teams from both Atalanta and Chelsea to finalize the contractual details. After receiving the green light for his journey, Palestra proceeded to Fiumicino Airport, departing for London at 8:20 PM.

The young talent spent last season on loan at Cagliari, where he made 37 appearances, scoring one goal and providing four assists. He was even named the best defender in Serie A during that campaign. Palestra is now poised to become Xabi Alonso's first new signing as Chelsea manager.