Chelsea are seeking to bolster their defensive ranks as part of a broader squad reshuffle under head coach Xabi Alonso, with a focus on securing Italy international Marco Palestra. The 21-year-old right back, currently on loan at Cagliari from Atalanta, is highly regarded after a standout season. Chelsea face competition from Inter Milan, Palestra’s preferred destination, but are reportedly prepared to offer around £47.5 million to complete the transfer.
This potential signing could trigger the departure of Chelsea’s Malo Gusto, who is drawing interest from Manchester City. The 23-year-old French defender, who joined Chelsea from Lyon for approximately £31 million three years ago, fits into City’s plans under incoming head coach Enzo Maresca. Gusto previously worked with Maresca, and sources indicate a deal for Gusto could match the fee Chelsea would pay for Palestra. Maresca is set to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, with a three-year contract expected to be finalized imminently following a compensation agreement reportedly exceeding £10 million with Chelsea.
In addition to Palestra, Chelsea have expressed interest in strengthening their defensive options by targeting Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix and Como’s centre back Jacobo Ramón. The club aims to reinforce the centre-back position amid a crowded roster that includes Wesley Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Mamadou Sarr, Aarón Anselmino, Levi Colwill, Benoît Badiashile, and Josh Acheampong. While Chelsea are open to selling a defender to accommodate new arrivals, they have ruled out letting Acheampong leave.
Beyond defensive reinforcements, Chelsea are exploring options to add at least two versatile attacking players capable of integrating quickly into the first team. This strategic recruitment drive reflects the club’s intent to reshape the squad ahead of the upcoming season under Alonso’s management, balancing the need for defensive solidity with attacking creativity.