Marco Palestra has revealed his excitement to play under “one of the best managers in the world” as his signing was announced by Chelsea.
Standard Sport understands the versatile right-back has joined the Blues from Atalanta for a package that comes to £47million.
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Palestra is contracted to 2033 and Chelsea see him as a signing who can go straight into Xabi Alonso’s starting lineup if needed.
Inter Milan were favourites to sign the 21-year-old until Chelsea joined the race and hijacked the deal last week by offering a package, and wages, that Inter could not match. His salary will include bonus incentives.
Chelsea appreciate Palestra’s ability to play right wing-back, right-back and to deputise on the left flank when needed.
Explaining why the Alonso factor was a contributing reason to his decision to join, the Italian international said: “It was very important.
“I feel a lot of energy from him. Also, he is one of the best managers in the world [as you can see when] he won at Bayer Leverkusen.
“It is important for me to have Xabi Alonso as the manager. I have had two conversations with him and I’m very happy because he told me what he wanted from me. I’m very happy to know him and to start training with Chelsea.”
Meanwhile, Chelsea are working to sign the Rayo Vallecano left-back Pep Chavarria and are engaged with club-to-club talks as they look to get the deal over the line.
