Quantcast
Home   >   Transfer News   >   Arsenal in talks to sign Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra

Arsenal in talks to sign Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra

By on March 6, 2026

Arsenal have made enquiries over the possibility of signing Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra next summer, according to Ekrem Konur. 

Currently representing Cagliari Calcio on loan from Atalanta, the Italian defender has quickly developed into one of the standout full-backs in Serie A this season.

Last season, the 21-year-old offered glimpses of his potential in limited outings for Atalanta. However, with experienced right-backs Davide Zappacosta and Raoul Bellanova ahead of him in the pecking order, a temporary switch became the most practical route for regular minutes.

He arrived in Sardinia primarily to gain experience and act as backup to Gabriel Zappa. Still, that plan has changed quickly as his strong performances have seen him claim the role outright, becoming central to Cagliari’s attempt to break into the top half.

With 26 appearances in 27 league fixtures for Gli Isolani, the youngster is building a compelling case to be included in Gennaro Gattuso’s squad for this month’s World Cup qualifiers against Northern Ireland.

Now, according to Konur, several clubs, including Arsenal, are showing ‘strong interest’ in signing Palestra next summer.

It appears the Gunners are looking to trump other rivals in signing the exciting fullback, as the journalist claims that the Premier League table leaders have made initial enquiries about the possibility of signing the 21-year-old.

Ben White replacement?

However, the North Londoners will need to ward off interest from other clubs, including Inter Milan, Juventus, Napoli, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur, who are also keen on the Italian, according to Konur.

Since the start of the last campaign, Ben White has slipped down the hierarchy at right-back under Mikel Arteta. Persistent injury setbacks have sidelined him for extended periods, while the impressive displays of Jurrien Timber have further limited his opportunities.

Despite being tied to the club until 2028, an exit appears increasingly possible. If that scenario unfolds in the summer, Palestra could represent a credible long-term successor in that position.

Swooping for Palestra won’t be easy, as Atalanta would be counting on him to replace Davide Zappacosta, who will turn 34 in the summer and looks set to depart the club.

However, it appears Atlanta could still be open to his departure amid interest from Arsenal, as a recent report from Italian transfer expert Nicolò Schira reveals that the Bergamo-based outfit are demanding a £43m fee to sanction Palestra’s exit next summer.