Ahanor to join Chelsea next season after Palace loan
Retold by Oddsrama · 1 September 2026
Chelsea are pressing ahead with summer recruitment, turning their attention to Atalanta left-back Honest Ahanor in what could be a significant defensive reinforcement for the Blues. The 18-year-old has already caught the eye of the Stamford Bridge outfit following their acquisition of right-back Marco Palestra from the Serie A outfit in July, and now formal talks are underway to bring the young Italian to west London.
Atalanta have slapped a €40 million (£34.3m) price tag on Ahanor's head, and the Bergamo club have signalled they're willing to negotiate if that valuation is met. The defender arrived at Atalanta last summer from Genoa on a three-year contract for a reported €16 million plus €4 million in add-ons, and he's already proven his worth with 28 Serie A appearances last season, becoming a reliable starter. His credentials include a Champions League debut during September's 2-1 victory over Club Brugge and an Italy call-up in May for friendlies against Luxembourg and Greece.
Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso is clearly building an ambitious squad following his July arrival, having already splashed out a club record £117 million on England midfielder Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa, while also recruiting experienced Premier League players Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson. Adding a promising young defender like Ahanor would fit the pattern of strategic investment in both established talent and rising prospects.
For betting purposes, this move suggests Chelsea are strengthening their defensive options ahead of a gruelling season. With Brighton visiting Stamford Bridge this Sunday following Monday's 3-2 triumph over Fulham, the Blues are clearly aiming for sustained title credentials. Brighton had previously lodged a €34 million bid that was rejected, so Atalanta appear serious about their €40 million demand—don't expect this one to come cheap.
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