OFFICIAL: Chelsea complete Marco Palestra signing from Atalanta with contract through to 2033

Chelsea is delighted to announce the signing of Italian international Marco Palestra from Serie A club Atalanta.

OFFICIAL STATEMENT:

The 21-year-old has signed a contract through to 2033 and will join his new team-mates for pre-season under manager Xabi Alonso.

Palestra, who was named Serie A Defender of the Year last season, said: ‘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.

‘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.’

Following an impressive 2025/26 campaign on loan at Cagliari, Palestra arrives at Stamford Bridge with a strong reputation across European football.

He featured in 37 league games for Cagliari last season, with his performances as a full-back and wing-back, on both flanks, standing out in the Italian top flight.

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

Welcome to Chelsea, Marco!