24 hours of talks changed Palestra's destination

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Chelsea are set to make Atalanta defender Marco Palestra their first signing for new boss Xabi Alonso, for a fee in excess of £43m.

Palestra had been expected to join Italian champions Inter Milan following a successful loan spell at Cagliari last season, where he was named Serie A's best defender.

However, after 24 hours of talks, the Premier League club have emerged as the 21-year-old's preferred destination, as sources in Italy claim Inter could not match Chelsea's offer on personal terms.

Palestra, who made his international debut for Italy this year, is viewed at Stamford Bridge as an exciting option capable of playing on either flank, both as a wing-back and more conventional full-back.

It is also an early sign of new manager Alonso's influence.

Having been appointed as manager rather than head coach, he is understood to have approved the move - the first major signing made by the club since the former Spain midfielder was named Liam Rosenior's replacement in May.

Alonso is set to formally join Chelsea on 1 July, but he has been in regular contact with the club's hierarchy regarding incoming and outgoing transfers.