Liverpool gain upper hand over Barcelona in deal for 21-year-old breakout star

Liverpool gain upper hand over Barcelona in deal for 21-year-old breakout star

Liverpool lead Barca in chase for Palestra

The 21-year-old is on loan from Atalanta at Cagliari this season with La Dea widely expected to cash in their chips on the Italy international this summer.

Liverpool will be contesting Palestra’s signature with Barcelona - but the hard-up Catalans will struggle to match Richard Hughes’ firepower in the transfer market.

“Barcelona sees Palestra as an interesting option to reinforce the right flank with a young profile and room for growth,” the report reads.

“However, Barcelona will not have it easy. Liverpool has entered the race and appears to have the upper hand.

“The Anfield club is looking to rejuvenate its defense and believes Palestra fits perfectly into its playing style.

“The allure of the Premier League, coupled with Liverpool's financial resources, could tip the scales in their favor.

“Furthermore, the possibility of offering him a significant role from the start is a factor that could prove decisive in the player's choice.”

Marco Palestra: Situation summary

Marco Palestra is a 2005-born Italian right‑back currently on loan at Cagliari from Atalanta, having progressed through GS Assago, Inter and Atalanta’s academy.