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Chelsea sign Italy defender Palestra from Atalanta

Chelsea have signed Italy defender Marco Palestra from Atalanta, the Premier League club announced Wednesday.

No fee was disclosed, but British media reports said the move was worth £43 million ($57 million), with the 21-year-old signing a contract until 2033.

Chelsea finished a disappointing tenth in the Premier League last season but are looking to rebuild under new manager Xabi Alonso.

Palestra, named Serie A Defender of the Year for the 2025/26 campaign, told the London side’s website: “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 added: “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 enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign on loan at Cagliari, featuring as a full-back and wing-back.

He made his senior Italy debut earlier this year, which was quickly followed by a second cap for the Azzurri.

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