Extra particulars are rising on how Chelsea managed to stun Inter by swooping in for , as Xabi Alonso performed a key function in convincing the man, with concerned too.
The Nerazzurri had been of the switch for €45m plus add-ons to succeed in €50m yesterday, when all of a sudden the scenario was turned on its head in a matter of hours.
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to each Atalanta at €57m plus no less than €3m in bonuses and a ten per cent lower of the long run sale price, and the participant, greater than doubling the €2.5m per season wage proposed by Inter.
The Serie A title winners wouldn’t be drawn right into a bidding battle, so backed away after months of negotiations.
Palestra left it to Atalanta
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MARCH 20: Marco Palestra of Cagliari reacts in the course of the Serie A match between and at Stadio Sant’Elia on March 20, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photograph by Enrico Locci/Getty Photographs)
what modified behind the scenes to persuade Palestra, who had till then seemingly been decided to affix Inter.
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It famous that Newcastle United and Chelsea had each tried earlier this month to make a suggestion, however the Italy worldwide had mentioned no as a result of he had promised himself to the Nerazzurri.
The distinction was made by first Xabi Alonso personally calling to persuade the participant of his venture, and naturally the large €5m per season wages over a six-year contract.
Sky Sport Italia declare that Palestra known as Atalanta final evening and knowledgeable them that he would gladly settle for both of the 2 presents from Inter and Chelsea, so was leaving it as much as them.
CAGLIARI, ITALY – MAY 09: Marco Palestra of Cagliari warms up forward earlier than in the course of the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and at Stadio Sant’Elia on Might 09, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photograph by Enrico Locci/Getty Photographs)
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With that in thoughts, La Dea requested Inter in the event that they have been ready to extend the bid to match Chelsea’s, however they opted to withdraw.
that the Chelsea method was within the offing, with agent Alessandro Lucci warning Inter, however house owners Oaktree wouldn’t give the all-clear.