New Chelsea signing Marco Palestra says incoming head coach Xabi Alonso speaking to him “about how he wants us to play” helped him choose the Blues as his next destination.
Right-back Palestra arrives from Atalanta for a fee of about £47m, including add-ons, off the back of an impressive season on loan at Cagliari where he was named Serie A defender of the year.
The 21-year-old has signed a six-year deal, with the option of a further year, and becomes the first arrival since Alonso’s appointment.
“A lot of things convinced me to join Chelsea, one of the best clubs in the world,” Palestra told club media.
“I’m very excited to get started. I’ve felt the energy since the first day Chelsea wanted me. I can’t wait to start, see all the fans, my team-mates and the manager.
“We have so many talented players here, a very strong squad and manager in Xabi. He has spoken to me about how he wants us to play, which is exciting, and we can’t wait to compete in the Premier League.”
Blues fans, what do you make of the deal? Where does Palestra fit into Alonso’s new squad? And where do Chelsea need to strengthen next?
Let us know here
[BBC]
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