La Liga champions Barcelona have reportedly taken the lead over Liverpool in the race to sign 21-year-old Italian right-back Marco Palestra this summer.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Barcelona and Liverpool are interested in Marco Palestra. The two European giants are eager to reinforce their defensive units by signing a right-back in the upcoming transfer window. They are “closely monitoring his progress and have already begun positioning themselves” for the summer.
However, the Reds have fallen behind the Blaugrana in the battle for the youngster’s signature, with the reigning La Liga champions “taking a step forward” in the chase. The report has stated that Barcelona may intensify talks to sign Palestra in the coming weeks, leaving Liverpool in a difficult position.
Who is Marco Palestra?
Marco Palestra has enjoyed his breakthrough in Serie A since joining Cagliari on a season-long loan deal from Atalanta this past summer. Born in Buccinasco, the youngster spent his formative years in Italy and graduated from the youth division at Atalanta. However, he has yet to enjoy his breakthrough at the New Balance Arena.
The 21-year-old has enjoyed a solid loan spell with Cagliari, amassing over 2,500 minutes of game time in 32 Serie A appearances thus far, chipping in with one goal and four assists. Meanwhile, the Italian full-back’s progress has piqued the attention of several high-profile clubs, with Liverpool and Barcelona among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
A man in demand
Liverpool’s interest in Marco Palestra is surprising. The Merseyside outfit signed Jeremie Frimpong last summer, and Arne Slot also has Conor Bradley in his squad. While both players have struggled with fitness issues this season, it makes little sense to add another right-back to the squad without offloading one.
As for Barcelona, while Jules Kounde has been top-notch as a right-back, Hansi Flick wants an alternative to the French international, as Joao Cancelo’s long-term future is uncertain. The German tactician has deployed Eric Garcia and Ronald Araujo in that role in Kounde’s absence. So, Palestra is an option worth considering for Barcelona.
With Barcelona overtaking Liverpool in the battle for Palestra’s signature, a summer move may be on the cards. The opportunity to join the Blaugrana should be more appealing to the 21-year-old Italian right-back, considering he will have brighter prospects at Spotify Camp Nou.