New Chelsea man - made in Italy: Blues splash out €60 million on Serie A gem

The last season was forgettable, but Chelsea hope the next one could be their chance to return to the top of English football. To achieve that, the Blues will have to plan carefully and invest wisely - something they already appear to have started doing.

Around six weeks after Xabi Alonso took charge at Stamford Bridge, he landed his first signing - officially the best defender in Serie A last season, right-back Marco Palestra.

Despite being on the verge of joining Inter Milan, the 21-year-old ultimately ended up at Stamford Bridge after Chelsea outbid the Nerazzurri, whose €45 million offer couldn't match the Blues' €60 million (including €3 million in bonuses).

Palestra's now-former club, Atalanta, had no hesitation in accepting the offer, and neither did the player, who will earn twice as much in London as he did in Bergamo.

The public in England views the defender as a long-term investment, believing Chelsea have secured their right-back for years to come.

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Palestra spent last season on loan at Cagliari, where he impressed with a goal and four assists in 37 appearances. His performances earned him the award for Serie A Defender of the Season, while he also made his senior Italy debut in March.

He is regarded as the prototype of the modern wing-back, with versatility arguably his greatest asset, as he is equally comfortable on either flank.

There is always an adjustment period when a young player arrives in the Premier League, given the league's intensity, physicality, and relentless pace. But with Palestra personally requested by Xabi Alonso, Chelsea supporters have every reason to believe they have signed a player capable of becoming a cornerstone of the club's future.