Manchester City and Arsenal are the favourites to sign Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra, according to reports in the Italian media.
The likes of Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan have all registered their interest in the 21-year-old, who is currently on loan at Cagliari.
However, Atalanta’s €40m (£35m) asking price is believed to be putting off suitors in Italy, and Gazzetta Dello Sport claims that it will leave the way clear for a move to the Premier League this summer.
Most Read on Man City News
Palestra is regarded as one of the top young right-backs in Europe, and with both City and the Gunners keen on strengthening that position, it is not a surprise they are seriously pondering summer bids for the defender.
Man City are seeking a cheaper alternative to Livramento
Journalist Fabrizio Romano claims that the Cityzens do hold a longstanding interest in Newcastle’s Tino Livramento. They made moves to recruit the England international last year.
However, Romano has recently stated that Pep Guardiola’s side have not been in contact with Livramento’s agent since the start of this season.
Despite his poor injury record, Newcastle are said to be demanding in excess of £60m for Livramento, and it appears City are looking at cheaper alternatives.
In addition to Palestra, the Manchester club have been linked with a move for Feyenoord’s Givairo Read, who could be on the market for €30m (£26m).
Arsenal may leave the race for Palestra
Gazzetta report that the Atalanta player is not the only Serie A fullback the Gunners are targeting, with manager Mikel Arteta a big fan of Juventus’s Andrea Cambiasso.
If they choose to pursue the 26-year-old instead, City may have a free run to sign Palestra over the coming months.
Want more news on Man City? Add Man City News as a preferred source on Google