Marco Palestra joins Chelsea from Atalanta in £47m deal

Chelsea has completed the signing of 21-year-old Italian defender Marco Palestra from Atalanta in a deal valued at approximately £47 million ($62 million). The right-back, who previously earned Serie A Defender of the Season honors following a loan spell at Cagliari, has signed a contract through 2033.

Palestra recently addressed rumors regarding a failed transfer to Inter Milan, stating he is focused on his new role under head coach Xabi Alonso. He expressed satisfaction with his integration into the squad and his decision to join Chelsea, despite the club's absence from the Champions League this season.

During pre-season, Palestra has featured in various tactical setups, including both back-three and back-four formations as Alonso experiments with different systems.