Arsenal should explore a deal for Atalanta defender Marco Palestra during the summer transfer window.
The Gunners are likely to go on another spending spree, and a new right-back could be pursued to compete with Jurrien Timber next term.
Ben White has fared decently in Timber’s injury absence, but the Englishman’s defensive flaws have been evident since becoming a regular starter.
White will enter the last two years of his contract this summer. Arsenal may seek to recoup some of the investment made in him with a transfer.
In that case, they may pursue a young replacement with immense potential. Palestra would be an ideal fit, having starred for Cagliari, on loan from Atalanta.
The 21-year-old has primarily played as a right wing-back for the Serie A outfit. He has chipped in with one goal and four assists from 32 appearances.
However, his main strength has been defensively. He has won an impressive seven duels per game alongside three recoveries and almost two tackles.
He has also excelled with his overlapping runs, completing an average of two dribbles. Palestra has created seven big chances during the Serie A campaign.
The youngster recently earned his first two caps for Italy during the international break and has the potential to become an elite right-back in future.
Arsenal have already been mentioned as suitors alongside Manchester City. In our view, the Gunners must seek to beat Man City to the player’s services.
Sport Italia claim that Premier League clubs have a financial edge over Inter Milan, and that the Italian ace could be prised away for around £26 million.
Atalanta will no doubt seek additional performance add-ons, but he would still represent a bargain signing for the Gunners due to his immense potential.
The Gunners need to be proactive in their pursuit. Palestra is represented by Alessandro Lucci and the World Soccer agency, who have Riccardo Calafiori as a client.
Arsenal could use their close association with Lucci to beat Man City and Inter Milan to the services of the highly-rated Atalanta star during the next transfer window.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com