Chelsea: here is Xabi Alonso's first signing

Chelsea have officially kicked off their summer transfer window with the arrival of Marco Palestra. The Italian right-back becomes the first signing of the Xabi Alonso era, just weeks after the Spanish coach’s appointment.

To convince Atalanta to part ways with their young defender, the London club shelled out €57 million, with an additional €3 million in potential bonuses. The 21-year-old has signed an eight-year contract, tying him to the club until June 2033. Long courted by Inter Milan, Palestra ultimately chose Stamford Bridge, impressed by Chelsea’s sporting project and his conversations with Xabi Alonso.

After making a name for himself during his loan spell at Cagliari—where he featured in 37 matches, scoring once and providing four assists—the defender is seen as one of Italy’s brightest prospects in his position. With this opening signing, Chelsea are setting the tone for their new project and making their ambitions for the upcoming season under Xabi Alonso crystal clear.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

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Chelsea

English Premier League