Chelsea’s full-back positions might be in need of strengthening this summer. This is especially true if Xabi Alonso opts to go with the three-at-the-back system, which brought him so much success at Bayer Leverkusen. But the Blues might not have the personnel required for that just yet.
Marc Cucurella has left, leaving Jorrel Hato as the only genuine option at left-back or left wing-back. The Dutchman has been extremely impressive in recent months. But it is possible that he might not be ready to shoulder the burden of being the starter just yet and needs a bit more time to develop.
On the other side of the pitch, there are serious question marks about whether Reece James can play in that wing-back role. In terms of his traits, that might be his best position. But considering the reality of his fitness history, it might be tough. Malo Gusto is the other option but has been linked with a move away from the club for some time now.
At the same time, it looks like the Blues are eyeing other full-back options. Sky Sport have confirmed that Inter Milan, Chelsea and Manchester City are all interested in Marco Palestra.
Chelsea’s interest in Marco Palestra of Atalanta confirmed
The same report from Sky Sport goes on to state that Chelsea have been asking the player’s entourage for information in the past 15 days.
That being said, it looks like Palestra and his entourage are giving priority to Inter Milan. They are waiting for them to reach an agreement with Atalanta over a move.
So, while nothing is set in stone yet, it looks like Chelsea are already behind in the race to sign Palestra this summer.
If there is a twist in the tale, perhaps they could find themselves in a position to sign him. But for now, that seems extremely unlikely.
Why Chelsea want to sign Marco Palestra
Palestra is not a household name, at least for most European football fans. But there is good reason for that.
Even though he is on the books at Atalanta, he spent the season out on loan at Cagliari. But that is what makes his rise so special.
Only one team that was not relegated conceded more goals than Cagliari in the Italian top flight last season. Yet, Palestra made enough of an impression to be named the best defender of Serie A.
That honour is mostly given to centre-backs. Previous winners include Kalidou Koulibaly, Bremer, Alessandro Bastoni and others.
So, Palestra, a wing-back, winning it was rare. And even more so because he was in a team in the bottom half of the table.
