Manchester City eyes Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra

Manchester City are linked with Atalanta right-back Marco Palestra. A new Italian report says Palestra prefers a move to City over any other club. Palestra impressed during the 2025‑26 season while on loan at Cagliari. He established himself as a top attacking wing‑back. The 21‑year‑old is 186 cm tall and combines possession skill with versatility. Inter Milan and Newcastle United have also been credited with interest in signing Palestra this summer. Inter Milan aim to replace Denzel Dumfries, who is set to join Real Madrid. Serie A champions Inter Milan face a battle to meet Atalanta's asking price of over €50 million for Palestra. Atalanta hope a Manchester City bid will allow them to command a higher fee. Newcastle United’s interest is noted, but Palestra is not believed to favour a move to St James’ Park. The FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders Manchester City thus hold a prime position in the race. Palestra ticks the boxes required of a City player: exceptional in possession, able to play as a wing‑back or invert into midfield. If Enzo Maresca takes over as City manager, he would value those attributes. Defensively he is sound and strong in duels, though still needs improvement given his age.