Key Takeaways:
- Two weeks ago, Marco Palestra signed for Chelsea despite a prior verbal agreement with Inter
- Inter’s alternative target, Anan Khalaili, failed his medical, collapsing a €25m move from Union Saint-Gilloise
- Inter will kick off their 2026-27 Serie A campaign at home against Monza on August 22
Transfer Developments and Marotta’s Remarks
Inter President Beppe Marotta has directed criticism at the agent representing Marco Palestra after the young defender opted to join Chelsea, despite previously agreeing terms with Inter. Speaking alongside coach Cristian Chivu at a press conference earlier today, Marotta expressed disappointment over the collapse of the deal and highlighted the escalating influence of agents in modern football.
Marotta commented: “We need to keep costs under control, not investments. I’m referring to players we can’t sign because their wages are too high and to agents, whose influence on the club’s finances is becoming increasingly significant.”
Inter President Beppe Marotta notes that new Chelsea signing Marco Palestra ‘backed out of a verbal agreement’ with the Nerazzurri, but blames the defender’s agent as well: ‘He could have steered him in a different direction.’ pic.twitter.com/jAU3xrvPpA
— Football Italia (@footballitalia) July 13, 2026
He went on to illustrate his point with Palestra’s situation, stating, “Take the case of Palestra, for example. It was the result of a decision made by the player, who backed out of a verbal agreement. His agent could have steered him in a different direction, but chose this path instead, and we had to accept seeing another Italian player move to a league that is not in direct competition with ours.”
Unsuccessful Move for Khalaili and Squad Planning
Inter are currently searching for a replacement for Denzel Dumfries, who has moved to Real Madrid in a €20m transfer. Their prime candidate, Marco Palestra, elected for a move to Chelsea two weeks ago. Marotta further revealed that the club’s secondary target, Anan Khalaili, underwent medical examinations which he did not pass. As a result, the proposed €25m transfer from Union Saint-Gilloise has been cancelled.
Season Outlook and Leadership
Under Marotta’s stewardship, Inter have added three Serie A crowns to their cabinet, with the most recent title – clinched during the 2025-26 campaign under Cristian Chivu – marking Marotta’s first as Inter president. The Nerazzurri began their pre-season preparations today and are scheduled to open the 2026-27 Serie A season at home against Monza on August 22.
