Chelsea have completed the signing of Italian right-back Marco Palestra from Atalanta, making him the first acquisition of the Xabi Alonso era at Stamford Bridge.

Palestra, 21, has put pen to paper on a six-year deal running until 2032, with the club holding an option to extend the contract by a further year. He will earn in excess of €5 million per season under the agreement.

Chelsea moved decisively to secure his signature, beating Serie A champions Inter to the deal in a transfer that will cost an initial €57 million, with up to €3 million more available in performance-related bonuses. Atalanta also secured a 10 percent sell-on clause in any future transfer of the player.

Palestra's excitement at the move

The young Italian made no secret of his enthusiasm for the switch to west London, speaking directly to the club's official website.