Liverpool are reportedly preparing a move to sign highly rated Italian defender Marco Palestra as the club begins shaping its defensive plans ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Reds are believed to be stepping up their interest in the 21-year-old full-back, who is currently on loan at Cagliari from Atalanta.
Liverpool view Palestra as a player capable of strengthening their squad in the short term while also developing into a long-term option at right-back, according to CaughtOffside.
Palestra has enjoyed an impressive season in Serie A, making around 30 appearances across all competitions during his loan spell with Cagliari.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, with the defender earning his senior international debut for Italy last month. Liverpool scouts are believed to have tracked his progress closely as he continues to build a reputation as one of Italy’s promising young defenders.
?? Marco Palestra is one of the best full-back prospects in Europe’s top five leagues.
He has won the most ground duels (150) in the Serie A this season.
A brilliant ball carrier who is comfortable with both feet.
Really fun to watch going forward. He’s got plenty of pace… pic.twitter.com/RudEpg7j3c
— Bence Bocsák (@BenBocsak) February 16, 2026
The Atalanta-owned youngster has already gained senior experience with his parent club, making appearances before securing regular football during his loan move.
The Reds are making serious preparations ahead of a possible summer bid, with a deal potentially costing in the region of £40m. Rival Premier League sides are also said to be monitoring the defender, increasing the likelihood of competition for his signature.
Liverpool preparing for long-term right-back transition
Liverpool’s interest in Palestra appears linked to the club’s long-term planning at right-back, with the position expected to be an area of focus in the upcoming transfer window.
After Trent Alexander-Arnold left the club last summer, he was replaced by former Bayer Leverkusen star Jeremie Frimpong. The speedster, however, has failed to match the hype he arrived with.
That said, it’s difficult to judge his first season at the club given the combination of injuries and Arne Slot’s tactical confusion. Frimpong will improve drastically under a new manager with a more clearly defined role at Anfield.
Palestra joining the Reds would give Liverpool much-needed depth in numbers after a season that has seen several players feature at right back, including Dominik Szoboszlai.
Marco Palestra – 25/26 So Far pic.twitter.com/TivJlEB9HS
— ? (@jaraaxz) October 3, 2025
Joe Gomez looked beleaguered at right-back against Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-final defeat on Sunday, but then so did the whole squad.
The summer cannot come soon enough for Liverpool.
Liverpool need to make a decision over Arne Slot’s future soon so that the recruitment staff have clarity on which profiles to target as a managerial change will impact transfer plans.