Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has provided clarity regarding the absence of Moises Caicedo and Marco Palestra from the matchday squad for the Premier League opener against Fulham. The Blues boss revealed that both players were sidelined due to late fitness issues, forcing a reshuffle in his first competitive starting XI.
Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has lauded summer signing Marco Palestra for offering "something different" ahead of their Premier League opener against Fulham. The Spanish tactician praised the versatile defender's tactical education in Italian football and positive dressing-room influence as the Blues prepare for Monday's London derby at Craven Cottage.
For some football fans, the summer is the part of the calendar that they look forward to the most - and that's not just because it's filled by a World Cup every four years! Rather, it's because the end of the season means only one thing: It's time for transfers! The 2026 window is once again proving to be busy, with some huge names making big-money moves before deadline day on September 1.
Chelsea's latest recruit Marco Palestra has expressed his immense excitement at beginning his Premier League journey following a high-stakes transfer battle. The Italy international, who recently completed a move to Stamford Bridge, is already getting a taste of English intensity during the club's pre-season tour.
Another summer, another Chelsea move for a high-potential, young star. This one, though, might just be different. The Blues sprung into life to hijack Inter's move for Atalanta prospect Marco Palestra, who has become the first signing of the Xabi Alonso era in a deal worth a cool €55 million (£47m/$62m).
Chelsea have officially confirmed the signing of Italian international Marco Palestra from Atalanta in a deal worth a reported £47 million. The 21-year-old defender becomes the first major acquisition of the Xabi Alonso era at Stamford Bridge as the Blues look to overhaul their squad following a difficult season.
Chelsea have moved swiftly to secure their first major signing of the summer, reportedly reaching a £47 million agreement for Atalanta’s rising star Marco Palestra. The 21-year-old Italy international has chosen Stamford Bridge over a move to Inter Milan, handing new manager Xabi Alonso a significant boost ahead of his debut campaign in west London.
Real Madrid have stepped up their interest in Inter wing-back Denzel Dumfries as they look to strengthen their defensive options. With a reported €25 million release clause in his contract, the Dutch international has emerged as a realistic target, while Inter are already exploring a replacement.
The Premier League's financial power is once again threatening to deplete Serie A of its best prospects. Manchester City and Arsenal are currently targeting Atalanta's rising defender Marco Palestra, whilst Mikel Arteta's side also maintain a strong interest in Juventus standout Andrea Cambiaso, according to reports.
The Nerazzurri were also on the lookout for a winger in January, and they may return to the transfer market in the summer to address gaps in their squad
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