Arsenal and Tottenham are keeping tabs on Marco Palestra ahead of the summer as there might be space for a new right-back.
The Italian right-back could be seen as an ideal player for the Premier League, with the two north London giants likely to need a new player in the full-back position.
Marco Palestra is one of the highly sought-after young defensive stars coming out of the Atalanta system, as he has continued to excel this season with Cagliari while on loan.
He is not expected to stay at the mid-table Serie A side beyond the current campaign, as Atalanta could evaluate his future then. The Bergamo side are certainly of the opinion that the player would be well served if he were to stay at the club for one more season.
The benefits of that could see them improve their valuation in the market and justify their asking price of €45 to €50 million, something suitors might be reluctant to pay at this moment.
His performances have attracted interest from the Premier League, as Arsenal and Chelsea were named as suitors recently. Tottenham are also in the mix for Palestra, but it remains to be seen whether either of those clubs are willing to fork out the necessary sum that Atalanta might demand.
Arsenal and Tottenham target Marco Palestra as right-back solution
The two north London giants are seeking a new right-back in the close season as they could potentially lose a player in that position.
Spurs, for instance, are sweating on the future of Pedro Porro, who has attracted big interest from a number of clubs, with Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan all said to be interested in the full-back.
Arsenal is also considering selling Ben White, with the English defender attracting interest from multiple clubs. The Gunners were recently linked with Valentino Livramento, which suggests they are in the market for a new right-back. Palestra represents another option if Arsenal decide to cash in on White during the summer transfer window.
Premier League clubs face decision over Palestra
Arsenal and Tottenham must decide whether Palestra justifies the asking price. Both clubs need right-back reinforcements but may baulk at spending €50 million on a 21-year-old with limited top-level experience.
Chelsea’s interest adds another layer of competition if either north London club commits to a bid.
The outcome likely depends on what happens with White and Porro. If Arsenal sell White or Tottenham lose Porro to Spanish or Italian clubs, the need for a replacement becomes urgent. Palestra would then become a more realistic target despite the high price tag. Atalanta hold all the negotiating power given his contract situation and their lack of pressure to sell this summer.
