Tottenham will look to breathe new life into their squad in the upcoming summer transfer window, but a lot could depend on whether they manage to avoid relegation under Roberto De Zerbi.
The current crop have drastically underperformed this season, so it goes without saying that some hard calls could be made at the end of the season.
The Italian usually prefers to use a 4-2-3-1 formation, which has worked really well for him over the course of his career.
And if reports are to be believed, a versatile full-back who could be tailor-made for that system has emerged on Tottenham’s radar.
Tottenham fall behind in Marco Palestra pursuit
Marco Palestra has been one of the breakout stars of the 2024-25 campaign as he continues to earn rave reviews for his performances at Cagliari.
However, he is owned by Atalanta and will return to the club at the end of the season regardless of how the rest of the games pan out.
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Primarily a right-back, the young Italian is also capable of playing on the left due to his weak-foot ability, making him a dream utility option for managers across the planet.
Caught Offside confirm that Tottenham are in the chase to sign him in the summer, with Juventus, Inter Milan and Newcastle United also credited with interest.
However, it is Liverpool who have jumped to the front of the queue to sign Palestra, as they continue to make ‘serious preparations’ to launch a move for him.
Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong have suffered multiple injuries this season, making the right-back spot one to address for the Reds.
Additionally, if Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas were to depart the club, Palestra could also serve as a backup for first-choice left-back Milos Kerkez, so Liverpool’s interest comes as no surprise.
Palestra a ‘rare’ talent
Cagliari manager Fabio Piscane lavished praise on Palestra this season, who was recently capped by Italy during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
“Palestra is a real asset to Italian football,” Pisacane said via Tutto Mercato Web.
“He has physical dominance, can use both feet, and works well in both phases. What struck me immediately was his personality on the ball, you never know where he’s going to go. That’s a rare quality.”
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His skill set seems incredibly unique, but Tottenham already have a lot of full-back options in Djed Spence, Pedro Porro, Destiny Udogie and Ben Davies.
Archie Gray is also capable of filling in if needed, so despite the fact that Palestra is a talented player, Tottenham would be better off using their money elsewhere as they have other problems in their squad to address.
