- Crystal Palace interested in Marco Palestra
- Liverpool frontrunners in race for Atalanta star
- The Italian can play in multiple positions
Crystal Palace are reportedly eyeing Atalanta full-back Marco Palestra but face competition from several Premier League clubs including Liverpool. The young Italian has caught the eye in Serie A this season and looks set for a move this summer.
Palestra’s performances on loan at Cagliari earned him a call-up to Italy’s squad during the recent international break. But his nation failed to qualify for the World Cup, meaning he won’t be on show on the biggest stage in world football.
The 21-year-old has done enough at club level to garner interest from a host of top English clubs. Liverpool are reportedly leading the race for the youngster but Tottenham Hotspur are also keen.
Palace Plot Palestra Move
A report from TEAMtalk claims that Palace are also “looking at Palestra” which suggests Steve Parish is keen to back a new manager with a new right-back. But the Eagles’ hopes of landing him might not be high given the list of clubs circling.
Liverpool, Spurs, Bournemouth, Arsenal, Chelsea are all keeping tabs on the Italian. He has appeared 30 times across competitions this season, posting one goal and four assists.
The sky seems to be the limit for Palestra and a move to the Premier League might be on the cards. He will almost certainly leave Cagliari once his loan is up at the end of the season.
Atalanta are thought to be asking for €45m (£39.2m) to part ways with their highly sought after right-back. They view him as a long-term asset but could be tempted to sell for a high price.
A Munoz Backup
Palace’s interest in Palestra might indicate that the board are looking at appointing a new manager who uses four at the back. He predominantly plays his football at right-back but can play on the left and even as a left winger.
Daniel Munoz has been Glasner’s first-choice right wing-back throughout his time in charge. The Colombian has been undroppable and as such can expect to remain a starter in the new coach’s team next season.
Nathaniel Clyne’s time at Selhurst Park is up as the veteran Englishman’s contract expires in June. He is expected to leave and Palestra could be an ideal replacement to come in and serve as Munoz’s backup.
Munoz is 29 and will eventually need replacing which makes the Italian’s potential acquisition that much more feasible. But the South Londoners have a huge challenge trying to see off their Premier League rivals.
