Liverpool explored a move for Marco Palestra this summer as the club sought another solution at right-back, but their interest in the Atalanta defender did not progress before he joined Chelsea.
The move, reported by The Athletic, highlights the uncertainty surrounding Jeremie Frimpong, who arrived from Bayer Leverkusen in a £30 million deal but has struggled to establish himself at Anfield.
Frimpong was signed following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure for Real Madrid, with Liverpool expecting the Netherlands international to provide attacking threat and versatility on the right. However, his performances have reportedly fallen short in both positions he was brought in to cover.
Liverpool considered Marco Palestra transfer
Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s former sporting director, is understood to have considered challenging Chelsea for Palestra during the summer window. The 21-year-old Italian eventually became the first signing of the Xabi Alonso era at Stamford Bridge, joining from Atalanta on a long-term contract.
Chelsea have confirmed that Palestra has committed his future to the club until 2033. His arrival was viewed as part of Alonso’s plans to add greater flexibility and athleticism to the Blues’ defensive options.
Liverpool’s pursuit was restricted by the need to strengthen in other areas, particularly on both wings, while the club also found it difficult to move on fringe players and reduce the wage bill.
That left manager Andoni Iraola with Frimpong as the principal senior option at right-back, although Liverpool can also use players such as Ronald Araujo and hope Conor Bradley returns from injury in time to compete for the position.
The club’s interest in Palestra was followed by a late attempt to recruit another Chelsea defender, Malo Gusto. French journalist Fabrice Hawkins reported that Liverpool made a final approach for the France international on deadline day.
The proposed deal would have been a loan without a mandatory purchase clause, while Chelsea wanted a permanent transfer. The two clubs were unable to reach an agreement before the window closed.
Frimpong remains Liverpool’s right-back concern
Liverpool’s decision to retain Frimpong means he remains central to the club’s plans despite the concerns over his form. The 25-year-old could still improve under Iraola, but the search for alternatives suggests the club were not entirely satisfied with their options.
Palestra’s move to Chelsea has therefore left Liverpool to manage a position they had hoped to reinforce. With Bradley’s recovery still important and no permanent replacement added, Frimpong is likely to remain under scrutiny as the season develops.
