Chelsea's summer signing Marco Palestra, who joined from Atalanta for £47 million, was also a target for Liverpool earlier this summer. However, the Reds ultimately did not make a move for the 21-year-old right-back, who now finds himself at Stamford Bridge under new manager Xabi Alonso. Palestra's experience largely comes from a loan spell at Cagliari last season, where he made 37 appearances across all competitions. His performances there earned him two caps for Italy earlier this year and paved the way for a big move to the Premier League. Injuries have slowed his start at Chelsea, but he impressed during pre-season and is hoping to make his competitive debut soon. Liverpool had reportedly explored the possibility of challenging Chelsea for Palestra during the transfer window, but their focus shifted elsewhere. With Mohamed Salah's departure, the Reds prioritized signing wide forwards, and they completed deals for centre-back Jeremy Jacquet and winger Bradley Barcola, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain for £106 million. At Chelsea, right-back Jeremie Frimpong remains the first choice, while Conor Bradley is expected to return from a long-term knee injury in November. Palestra, who was also linked with a move to Inter Milan, is anticipated to play regularly once he recovers from a minor injury sustained in training. Speaking about the young Italian's current situation, Alonso noted, "It’s especially frustrating for him. He came with huge energy and desire to enjoy his game in the Premier League. He had a very good pre-season, but he picked up an injury before the first game against Fulham. It’s part of a footballer’s life to come back from injury, and we will need him for sure. He has great potential and will add a lot of good qualities we need in the team." As Chelsea prepare to host Hull City in the Premier League, there remains a chance Palestra could feature in the squad for the first time, marking an important step in his journey at the club.