Chelsea are close to signing Xabi Alonso’s £43m Marco Palestra as their first signing.

Chelsea Atalanta defender Marco Palestra is set to become new boss Xabi Alonso’s first signing for a fee in excess of £43m.

Felstra, who spent a successful season on loan at Cagliari last season, is expected to join Italian champions Inter Milan.

However, after 24 hours of talks, the Premier League club emerged as the 21-year-old’s preferred destination, with Italian sources unable to match. ChelseaDiscount on personal terms.

Palestra, who made his debut for Italy this year, is seen as an interesting option at Stamford Bridge who can play either as a wing-back or as a regular full-back.

It’s the first sign of new manager Alonso’s influence.

He was appointed as coach rather than head coach and is understood to have approved the transfer – the former Spain midfielder’s first major signing at the club since his tenure. He was named as Liam Rosenier’s replacement in May.

Alonso is set to officially join. Chelsea On July 1, however, he regularly meets with the club’s hierarchy regarding income and expenditure transfers.

Chelsea He will also include at least one centre-back and a midfielder – possibly Strasbourg’s Valentin Barko – with multiple sources suggesting a deal is close. A more versatile striker is also on the list.

A number of players are set to move to West London this summer with deals completed last year. £40m including winger Giovanni Cuenda From sports and Strasbourg striker Emmanuel Imga.

It is expected that there will be more departures Following the departure of Marc Cucurella to Real Madridas a Chelsea They will look to trim their squad after a season in which they finished 10th in the Premier League and failed to qualify for Europe.