Chelsea are set to be dealt a transfer blow as one of their targets is now about to confirm his move to Inter Milan.
It has already been a difficult summer for new manager Xabi Alonso, who has had to say goodbye to Marc Cucurella before getting the chance to coach him.
There is a real chance that the Blues lose Enzo Fernandez this summer too, with Real Madrid expected to finalise that deal before the end of June.
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Chelsea target Marco Palestra set to join Inter Milan
As far as incomings go, Chelsea sources have kept their cards close to their chest, although it has been reported that they have interest in Marco Palestra.
The 21-year-old was a near ever-present on loan at Cagliari from Atalanta, and despite interest from the Blues looks set to remain in Italy.
Fabrizio Romano stated on his YouTube channel that Palestra’s move to Inter Milan is being finalised.
He said: “The deal for Marco Palestra to Inter is truly being finalised. So we’re almost there.
“For Palestra, all the updates we’ve told you on the channel over the last 24 hours, or rather over the last few weeks, were pointing in that direction. Then, clearly, the meeting between Inter and Atalanta was a very positive one, in which the deal wasn’t finalized, there wasn’t a final handshake, but basically, the outlines of the operation at Inter were drawn up.
“Let’s remind you, €45 million plus bonuses. We’re now working on how to reconstruct these bonuses. As they’re currently formulated, they’re still not suitable for Atalanta. There is also talk of a future resale, in short the pieces of an operation that has found its path are falling into place. After several weeks of discussions
“Negotiations, Inter are ready to reach a full agreement with Marco Palestra for a five-year contract. So Palestra has chosen Inter, his agents, I repeat, have chosen Inter’s project. Let’s just say that, in short, the direction has been clear and so we’re moving towards a closure.”
Some have feared that Chelsea are going to struggle to attract new signings this summer after finishing in 10th last season, meaning they missed out on any form of European football for the upcoming season.
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Chelsea braced for changes in the right-back position
Reece James is seen as one of the untouchables by Alonso already, although he showed during England’s World Cup win over Croatia that he can still do a job in midfield too.
When that has happened previously, it has been Malo Gusto starting at right-back, although there are currently no assurances over his future at Stamford Bridge.
Enzo Maresca has reportedly asked Man City to sign Gusto, with the Frenchman constantly featuring when he was in charge in West London.
Given Chelsea’s financial position, it is unlikely they would be able to reject a decent fee for Gusto, allowing them the chance to hand more opportunities to the likes of Josh Acheampong.
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