Marco Palestra was one of the standout Italian players last season and Manchester City have been backed to meet his valuation.
The versatile wing-back spent a season on loan at Cagliari away from Atalanta. This has helped the youngster to progress, with the 21-year-old having now made two appearances for the Italian national team
SportWitness have covered rising Premier League interest in the talent, with Manchester City mentioned as a suitor recently. Enzo Maresca’s admiration is a big reason behind that, with Inter Milan also keen on Palestra.
There were signs that the Italian champions may need Denzel Dumfries to depart before signing the Atalanta player, but this hasn’t been the case.
€45m can seal deal
Alfredo Pedulla reports about the Azzurri wing-back, certain that Palestra will be a ‘key player’ in the summer transfer window. He is likely to leave Atalanta if suitors offer the right terms.
Inter have taken the first steps for the deal, having made initial contact. They have acquired the Oaktree ownership’s permission for the move and could rely on their previous working relationship with La Dea.
The two clubs had dealt with each other regarding a move for Ademola Lookman last year. The Nigerian joined Atletico Madrid but Inter and Atalanta remain close to each other.
Manchester City’s threat still lingers. Palestra features prominently on the Citizens’ shortlist, even if it isn’t known whether he is at the top of it. Maresca’s arrival could speed up the process, with Atalanta likely to accept €45m.
It is believed ‘offers will make the difference’, with La Dea’s price tag having risen by €5m in recent weeks.
City shouldn’t hesitate
At this stage it feels like Manchester City have a good chance landing a high-potential and versatile talent. Palestra is a reliable technician, can use both feet, can play on either side and has also developed physically.
Italian clubs don’t usually pay a significant amount upfront for permanent deals. That is why Inter failed to sign Lookman, allowing La Dea to sell him to Spain.
Something similar could happen with Palestra. The Italian has a much bigger market than the Atleti player did and this can give Manchester City an advantage.
They shouldn’t have problems affording the amount, with Atalanta having shown an inclination towards selling their best players to the highest buyers.