Chelsea have signed Marco Palestra from Atalanta on a seven-year contract, with the Premier League club confirming the arrival of the highly rated Italian defender as the first signing under new manager Xabi Alonso.
Although Chelsea did not disclose the transfer fee, reports in the British media claim the deal is worth £43 million, with potential add-ons increasing the total value to £47 million.
The 21-year-old defender joins the Blues after an impressive 2025/26 season, during which he was named Serie A Defender of the Year following a successful loan spell at Cagliari.
Speaking after completing the move, Marco Palestra said he was delighted to join one of the world's biggest football clubs.
"A lot of things convinced me to join Chelsea, one of the best clubs in the world. I'm very excited to get started. I've felt the energy since the first day Chelsea wanted me. I can't wait to start, see all the fans, my team-mates and the manager," he said.
The Italian international also praised new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso, revealing that the Spanish coach had already discussed his tactical plans and vision for the team.
"We have so many talented players here, a very strong squad and manager in Xabi. He has spoken to me about how he wants us to play, which is exciting, and we can't wait to compete in the Premier League," Palestra added.
Reports in Italy suggested the defender was close to joining Inter Milan before Chelsea made an improved offer that convinced him to move to Stamford Bridge.
Palestra is capable of playing as both a full-back and wing-back and impressed during his loan spell with Cagliari, earning widespread praise for his defensive performances and consistency.
He also made his senior debut for the Italy national team during the country's unsuccessful FIFA World Cup qualifying play-off campaign.
The signing comes as Chelsea continue to strengthen their squad after a disappointing Premier League season in which they finished 10th. The club is expected to make further additions, particularly in defence, following the departure of Marc Cucurella to Real Madrid.
Chelsea are also reportedly monitoring Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix as Alonso looks to rebuild the team's backline ahead of the new campaign.
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