Chelsea have announced the £43m signing of Italian right-back Marco Palestra from Atalanta.

The 21-year-old has become the first arrival under the Blues new manager Xabi Alonso.

Palestra joins the club from Atalanta after putting pen to paper on a six-year deal, with the option of a further year.

The Italian international came through the ranks of Atalanta’s academy and his professional debut in December 2023.

Palestra also went on to make his debut for the Italian national team in their World Cup qualifying play-off against Northern Ireland in March this year.

The young defender highlighted the positive energy he has already felt since Chelsea first showed interest, and admitted he is looking forward to meeting the fans, his new teammates, and the coaching staff.

“I’m very excited to get started. I’ve felt the energy since the first day Chelsea wanted me. I can’t wait to start, see all the fans, my teammates and the manager,” Palestra told the Chelsea website.

“We have so many talented players here, a very strong squad and manager in Xabi.

“He has spoken to me about how he wants us to play, which is exciting, and we can’t wait to compete in the Premier League.”