Chelsea began a new chapter after officially welcoming Xabi Alonso as their new manager.
The Blues hope the Spaniard can lead a major turnaround following a difficult 2025–26 campaign that ended with a 10th-place Premier League finish and no European football.
The club have already backed Alonso in the transfer market. Chelsea agreed a £43 million deal for Marco Palestra after also moving for Pep Chavarria and Granit Xhaka.
They continue to pursue Maxence Lacroix as part of an ambitious summer rebuild. Alonso wants a squad that suits his tactical approach from the start of pre-season.
Chelsea have therefore acted quickly to strengthen several positions as they prepare for the new campaign.
Chelsea have now officially confirmed the signing of Marco Palestra from Atalanta.
The Italian international has signed a contract until 2033 and will immediately join Alonso’s squad for pre-season.
Palestra explained why he decided to move to Stamford Bridge after completing the transfer. He 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.”
The 21-year-old arrives after an impressive campaign that enhanced his reputation across Italian football.
He featured in 37 league matches during his loan spell at Cagliari, where he impressed on both sides of defence as a full-back and wing-back.
Palestra also earned his senior Italy debut earlier this year before adding a second international appearance.
Chelsea believe the defender can play an important role under Alonso as the club continue reshaping the squad ahead of the new season.
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