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Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Italian international Marco Palestra from Atalanta for a reported fee of €60 million plus add-ons. The 21-year-old defender has agreed to a six-year contract with an option for an additional year.

Expressing his excitement after completing the move, Palestra told the club’s official website, “I’m really thrilled to begin this new journey. I’ve felt the energy from the moment Chelsea showed interest in me. I can’t wait to start training, meet the fans, my new teammates, and the manager.”

He added, “We have so many talented players here, a very strong squad, and an excellent manager in Xabi. He has explained how he wants us to play, and it’s very exciting. We are eager to compete in the Premier League.”

Palestra was previously close to joining Inter Milan for around €45 million plus bonuses before Chelsea made a late move with a significantly higher bid, reportedly doubling the salary he was set to earn at San Siro.

According to reports, his wages at Stamford Bridge will exceed €5 million per season for six years, with the possibility of extending the deal by another year.

Atalanta are expected to retain a 10 percent sell-on clause as part of the deal, earning approximately €57 million upfront and an additional €3 million in bonuses.

Palestra, who primarily operates as a right-back but is capable of playing on the left or in a more advanced role, is a product of Atalanta’s youth academy, where he has been since the age of 10. He rose to prominence during his loan spell at Cagliari last season, contributing one goal and four assists in 37 appearances for the Sardinian club.

The young defender also made his senior debut for Italy in March 2026, earning his first two international caps after representing his country at both Under-19 and Under-21 levels.