How Alonso convinced me to snub Inter, join Chelsea –Palestra
Marco Palestra has opened up on the reasons behind his decision to snub Inter Milan for Chelsea ahead of the 2026-27 Premier League season.
The Blues pipped the Italian champions to his signature by offering more money despite Inter Milan being the favourites for his signature since May.
Chelsea submitted a bid of €57m plus €3m in bonuses which was accepted by Atalanta last week while Inter Milan offered €45m fixed plus €5m in add-ons.
The Italian defender signed a six-year deal at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday and he is expected to earn €5m per season.
The 21-year-old has revealed how a conversation with Xabi Alonso convinced him to join Chelsea ahead of Inter Milan.
Palestra said: ‘It was very important. I feel a lot of energy from him. Also, he is one of the best managers in the world [as you can see when] he won at Bayer Leverkusen. It’s important for me to have Xabi Alonso as the manager.
Read Also: Aguirre credits Mexico fans for Ecuador win
“I have had two conversations with him and I’m very happy because he told me what he wanted from me. I’m very happy to know him and to start training with Chelsea.
“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,”
He featured in 37 league games for Cagliari last season, with his performances as a full-back and wing-back, on both flanks, standing out in the Italian top flight.
Palestra earned his senior debut for Italy earlier this year, which was quickly followed by a second cap for the Azzurri.
He was named Serie A Defender of the Year last season.
