Inter Leading the Race for Atalanta's Marco Palestra
Young full-back Marco Palestra has emerged as one of the most sought-after talents in Serie A after a breakout 2025-26 campaign with Atalanta. The 21-year-old Italy international is at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war, but his heart is set on a move to Inter Milan.
According to reports from Corriere dello Sport, Palestra would “already” be a Nerazzurri player if the decision were his alone, so strong is his desire to link up with the reigning Serie A champions. The player has agreed personal terms in principle on a five-year contract worth approximately €3 million per season, leaving only an agreement between the two clubs as the final hurdle.
Chelsea and Manchester City Interest Thwarted
Chelsea recently made a direct approach for Palestra, but the former Cagliari loanee turned down the Premier League side‘s advances. The Blues, under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, had identified the dynamic full-back as a key target, but Palestra’s preference for a stay in Serie A has forced them to look elsewhere.
Manchester City, also coached by ex-Chelsea boss Maresca, were initially keen on the Atalanta defender but have since shifted their focus to Chelsea’s Malo Gusto after learning of Palestra’s determination to join Inter. This chain of events underscores the Italian’s single-minded intent.
“Palestra wants only Inter. He has already turned down Chelsea and is waiting for the two clubs to find an agreement,” a source close to the situation told Corriere dello Sport.
Financial Hurdles and Inter’s Negotiation Strategy
While personal terms are not an issue, the deal still hinges on Atalanta’s valuation. La Dea are willing to sell for a fee in the region of €40 million, but Inter are keen to lower the cash component by including a counterpart in the deal. The Nerazzurri are reportedly looking to offload Denzel Dumfries to raise funds, a move that would directly create space and budget for Palestra’s arrival.
The negotiation is expected to accelerate once an agreement is reached for the Dutch wing-back. Inter’s management remains confident they can strike a deal with Atalanta, especially given the player’s public desire to make the switch.
Quick Facts
Player: Marco Palestra
Age: 21
Position: Full-back / Wing-back
Current club: Atalanta
2025-26 Serie A stats: 32 appearances, 4 goals, 6 assists
Contract agreement with Inter: Five years, ~€3m net per season
Atalanta asking price: €40 million
Key Takeaways
- Marco Palestra has rejected an approach from Chelsea, prioritizing a move to Inter Milan.
- Personal terms are already settled between Inter and the player, but a club agreement is still required.
- Manchester City have also backed away after Palestra’s clear preference for Inter became known.
- Inter need to sell Denzel Dumfries to fund the transfer and finalize negotiations with Atalanta.
- The deal could be completed quickly once the two clubs settle on a fee, likely around €40 million.