Manchester City are reportedly among the leading contenders to sign Atalanta wing-back Marco Palestra this summer, with the Premier League side backed to meet the Italian club’s €45 million asking price.
The 21-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough campaign on loan at Cagliari during the 2025/26 season and has quickly established himself as one of the most highly-rated young talents in Italian football.
His rise has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Inter Milan, but Manchester City are emerging as a serious threat following Enzo Maresca’s arrival at the Etihad Stadium.
According to reports in Italy, Atalanta would be prepared to sell if their valuation is met, with offers expected to determine where the player’s future lies.
Marco Palestra becoming one of Serie A's hottest prospects
Palestra's development over the past year has been remarkable.
The versatile defender has impressed with his ability to operate on either flank, while also demonstrating the technical quality and tactical flexibility increasingly demanded at the highest level.
His performances at Cagliari earned him recognition at international level, resulting in his first appearances for Italy's senior national team.
Having followed Manchester City's recruitment strategy in recent years, Palestra fits the profile of player the club regularly targets — young, technically gifted, positionally versatile and possessing significant room for further development.
Those qualities appear to have placed him firmly on City's shortlist ahead of the summer window.
Inter Milan already making moves
While Manchester City remain strongly interested, Inter Milan have reportedly taken the first concrete steps in pursuit of the defender.
Reports in Italy suggest the Nerazzurri have already initiated contact after receiving approval from ownership to explore a potential deal.
Inter's existing relationship with Atalanta could also prove beneficial.
The two clubs have regularly negotiated transfers in recent years, creating an established line of communication that may help discussions progress more smoothly.
However, Manchester City's financial strength remains a significant factor.
Unlike many Serie A clubs, City are capable of meeting Atalanta's valuation without relying on complicated payment structures or player exchanges.
Why Manchester City could hold the advantage
History suggests Atalanta are willing sellers when their valuation is met. The Serie A side have repeatedly demonstrated a willingness to move on key players for the right price, particularly when interest arrives from financially powerful clubs. That could favour Manchester City.
While Inter Milan remain interested, Italian clubs often face greater restrictions when negotiating large transfer fees, particularly when compared to Premier League sides.
As a result, City may find it easier to satisfy Atalanta's demands should they decide to accelerate their pursuit.
Key points
- Manchester City are interested in Atalanta defender Marco Palestra
- Enzo Maresca is believed to admire the Italian youngster
- Inter Milan have already made initial contact
- Atalanta are expected to sell for around €45m
- Palestra has recently broken into Italy's senior national team
What’s next?
Inter Milan are expected to continue discussions with Atalanta, while Manchester City monitor developments closely under Maresca.
If City decide to formalise their interest, the financial package they can offer may quickly shift momentum in their favour.
With Atalanta reportedly willing to listen to offers around €45 million, Palestra could become one of the most closely watched young defenders on the market during the coming weeks.
Should Manchester City move quickly for Marco Palestra before competition intensifies this summer?
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