Marco Palestra has signed a five‑year contract with Chelsea, committing the 21‑year‑old to the Premier League club for an annual fee of €5 million.
The agreement effectively doubles the offer previously extended by Inter Milan, marking a significant increase in the player’s market value.
Chelsea’s manager has reportedly played a pivotal role in the move, engaging with Palestra to outline his potential responsibilities within the squad.
Prior to the final decision, Palestra reached out to Atalanta’s chief executive to confirm his acceptance of Chelsea’s proposal, after earlier discussions with Newcastle United and a preferred interest from Inter.
During the previous season, the defender was loaned to Cagliari, where he operated as a right wing‑back and helped the team secure 14th place in Serie A.
His performances earned him the title of Serie A’s best defender, and he was recorded as the fastest player in the league with an average sprint speed of 27.96 km/h.
