Inter Milan has reportedly set its sights on Atalanta’s Marco Palestra as a potential long-term replacement for Denzel Dumfries, should the Dutch player depart in the summer.
Dumfries, who is nearing the end of his fifth season with Inter, has a €25 million release clause in his contract, which is set to become active in July. This clause allows for a significant wage increase, making a move abroad appealing for the 29-year-old, who has attracted international interest for several years.
Meanwhile, Palestra has had a standout season on loan at Cagliari. The 21-year-old has made 31 league appearances, playing a crucial role in the team’s efforts to avoid relegation. Cagliari currently sits 16th in the league standings, six points clear of the relegation zone.
Palestra’s impressive performances also led to a call-up to the Italian national team. He was part of the squad that unfortunately failed to qualify for the World Cup last month.
According to reports, Atalanta is initially unwilling to consider offers for Palestra and intends to keep him upon his return from Sardinia. However, financial pressures within Italian football might force them to reconsider if substantial offers are received in the summer, especially with Premier League clubs also closely monitoring the situation.
It is believed that an offer in the region of €40 million could be enough to persuade Atalanta to sanction a transfer. Notably, Palestra has a history with Inter, having progressed through their youth academy before joining Atalanta’s youth system.
English Translation:
Inter Milan has reportedly identified Atalanta full-back Marco Palestra as a long-term successor to Denzel Dumfries, in case the Dutchman leaves in the summer.
The 29-year-old, who is about to complete his fifth season at Inter, has a €25 million release clause in his contract, which is set to become active in July. Having attracted interest from outside Italy for several years, this price tag makes it likely that Dumfries may be tempted to move for a significant wage increase.
Palestra, on the other hand, has had a remarkable season on loan at Cagliari. Having made 31 league appearances this season, his contributions have been vital in the team’s attempts to stave off relegation, with Cagliari currently sitting 16th in the table, six points above the drop zone.
The 21-year-old’s performances also earned him a call-up to the Italian national team, and he was part of the squad that failed to secure World Cup qualification last month.
As reported, Atalanta is not interested in any offers for Palestra and intends to keep him after his return from Sardinia. However, the financial realities of the Italian top flight mean they may not be able to refuse many offers for him in the summer, especially with Premier League clubs also closely monitoring Palestra’s situation.
It is believed that an offer in the region of €40 million could persuade Atalanta to agree to a deal. It is worth noting that, in addition to graduating from Atalanta’s youth academy, Palestra also spent time in Inter’s youth ranks.
