Manchester City are firmly in the picture to sign Marco Palestra and could be ready with a decisive offer.
Sport Witness have covered how the Atalanta player has no interest in joining Newcastle United. While he is keen on joining Inter Milan, the Citizens’ offer can change his mind entirely.
The Nerazzurri have made a formal offer for the wing-back already. They put forward €40m plus bonuses but this was rejected almost instantly by Atalanta.
As La Dea attempt to launch an auction, Manchester City’s own offer could be on the way soon.
Citizens’ warning presented
TuttoAtalanta report that Atalanta have no intention of selling Palestra for less than €50m. Inter haven’t shown signs of meeting that price, even if they offered youngster Cristiano Cocchi as part of a renewed offer.
This didn’t convince Atalanta, who want a straight cash deal. As a result, Inter’s hopes are shrinking, with Enzo Maresca keen on bringing the defender to Manchester City.
He sees the Italy international as the perfect fit for his system, with the new Citizens manager trying to build a young squad for next season.
Palestra could be at the forefront of that. The outlet also believe ‘next week could be decisive’ in the race.
The auction for Palestra is open, with Manchester City ‘ready’ to make an offer of their own.
While Inter remain interested, TuttoAtalanta feel quite confident that the English club will have a big say about where Palestra finally ends up. They are also unlikely to face problems in affording the €50m valuation.
Inter playing the waiting game
It feels like Inter are in no hurry over a deal. It is only Atalanta who are forcing an auction, while using Manchester City’s name.
The Citizens could well be interested but they are yet to hold any negotiations either. Inter have done that, having established a solid foundation for a move.
Denzel Dumfries’ move to Real Madrid is yet to go through. Once that happens, they will earn around €20m and this can be used to convince Atalanta.