Transfer Rumors: Liverpool and Barcelona Set Sights on Italy Defender Marco Palestra

Liverpool and Barcelona have joined the growing list of elite clubs monitoring Atalanta’s 21-year-old right-back Marco Palestra, according to TEAMtalk. The Italy international, currently on loan at Cagliari, is valued at around €45 million and could be on the move this summer as Europe’s heavyweights race to secure defensive reinforcements.

Palestra’s robust, defense-first profile has piqued the interest of Premier League giants Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea, but sources indicate Liverpool have accelerated their scouting efforts as they search for a more defensive-minded right-back to balance Arne Slot’s tactical setup. Barcelona, meanwhile, view the youngster as a long-term solution on the flank as the club continues its squad overhaul.

Despite his temporary spell in Sardinia, Palestra remains under contract with Atalanta, who are open to cashing in should their valuation be met. With the player’s representatives fielding inquiries from across the continent, a bidding war could erupt once the window opens.

The race for Palestra is only one subplot in a frantic pre-summer market. Chelsea continue to track FC Cologne’s 19-year-old forward Said El Mala, who has ten Bundesliga goals in 28 appearances and was recently ranked 37th on ESPN scout Tor-Kristian Karlsen’s list of the 39 best under-21 players. Brighton, Everton and Brentford have also registered interest, while Newcastle saw an approach rebuffed.

Elsewhere, Manchester City have leapfrogged Manchester United in the chase for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson after the 23-year-old reportedly rejected Old Trafford’s advances. City hope to finalize a £65 million deal before the World Cup kicks off, wary that the price could rise.

Juventus are weighing a surprise move for Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, with manager Luciano Spalletti—who previously coached the Brazilian at Roma—targeting him as the ideal successor to Michele Di Gregorio. Juve believe they can match the keeper’s €8 million annual wages, though negotiations may center on driving down Liverpool’s €20 million asking price.

As clubs jostle for position, Marco Palestra’s name is fast climbing the list of must-watch prospects, and the coming weeks will reveal whether Liverpool or Barcelona make the first decisive move.