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Arsenal earmark Marco Palestra as Ben White replacement

By on March 13, 2026

Arsenal have earmarked Atalanta fullback Marco Palestra as a potential option to replace Ben White next summer, according to Sports Boom.

Since completing his move from Brighton & Hove Albion in the summer of 2021, Ben White has dealt with recurring injury issues that have disrupted his momentum and restricted his involvement under Mikel Arteta for prolonged spells.

The strong performances of Jurriën Timber at right-back this season have further limited his role, despite previously forming an effective partnership with Bukayo Saka on the right side.

Although his contract in North London runs until 2028, a departure before that point cannot be dismissed, with the Gunners now assessing potential options to replace the England international should he leave.

It appears Arsenal have a preferred option in mind, as Sports Boom claims that the Premier League table-toppers have earmarked Atalanta’s Palestra as a viable option to reinforce their backline next summer.

According to the report, White is already attracting keen interest from several clubs, including Spanish giants Barcelona, and his exit is increasingly likely.

Hence, the report adds that Mikel Arteta is looking for a highly technical profile capable of playing the inverted fullback role, and the Gunners’ scouts have identified the 21-year-old as the ‘prime candidate’ for that role.

Exciting fullback

However, the North London giants face stern competition from Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur, Brentford, and Brighton & Hove Albion, who are all keeping tabs on the Italian ahead of next summer, Sports Boom adds.

While Atlanta have placed a valuation of £34m to £43m on Palestra, keen interest from English clubs like Arsenal could spark a bidding war, driving his price tag higher, according to the report.

The Italian defender is currently on loan at Cagliari and has emerged as one of the most exciting full-backs in Serie A during the current campaign.

Having appeared in 27 of Gli Isolani’s 28 league matches, the youngster is strengthening his case for inclusion in Gennaro Gattuso’s squad for next month’s World Cup qualifying clash with Northern Ireland.

Tactically, he stands out for his positional awareness and ability to hold his ground against wingers. He is capable of operating in a back four or as a wing-back, adjusting his role depending on the team’s structure. That versatility, along with his defensive solidity, could prove useful to Arteta’s system of play if a deal is agreed.