Bergomi: Inter Was the Perfect Choice for Palestra – He Could Have Been the Next Hakimi

FolioPitch.com – 26 June 2026 | In a summer dominated by high-profile transfers, one saga has captured the imagination of Italian football fans: Marco Palestra‘s move from Cagliari to Chelsea. Inter Milan legend Beppe Bergomi has weighed in, stating that Bergomi Inter was the perfect choice for Palestra could have been the next Hakimi. The 21-year-old right-back, who earned his first Italy cap last season, opted for Stamford Bridge over San Siro, a decision that Bergomi believes may have been driven more by finances than footballing reasons.

Bergomi, a World Cup winner and one of Inter’s greatest defenders, shared his thoughts in an exclusive interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport. He emphasized that Bergomi Inter was the perfect choice for Palestra could have been the next Hakimi – a reference to Achraf Hakimi, who dazzled at Inter before moving to PSG. “Inter could have had another Hakimi,” Bergomi said. “Palestra has the speed and technique to thrive as a wing-back in Chivu’s 3-5-2 system, just like Hakimi did.”

The transfer, valued at up to €60 million with wages of €5-6 million per season, sees Palestra join a Chelsea side that finished 10th in the Premier League and will miss European competition next season. Meanwhile, Inter are reigning Serie A and Coppa Italia champions, set to play in the Champions League. Despite that, Palestra chose London over Milan.

Bergomi acknowledged the lure of the Premier League but reiterated that Bergomi Inter was the perfect choice for Palestra could have been the next Hakimi. “I understand the pride a young player feels moving to a competitive league,” he said. “But at 21, money shouldn’t be the deciding factor. Inter would have been ideal for his development and enjoyment.”

The Nerazzurri had set aside €50 million for Palestra, viewing him as the replacement for Denzel Dumfries, who is bound for Real Madrid. Bergomi believes that Bergomi Inter was the perfect choice for Palestra could have been the next Hakimi, not only for style but for continuity. “Palestra would have slotted right into the right-wing-back role, giving Inter speed and creativity. Now they must find alternatives.”

Concerns exist that Palestra’s growth may stagnate behind Reece James at Chelsea. Bergomi hopes for playing time, noting that Italian players abroad like Retegui, Calafiori, Tonali, and Donnarumma have maintained their national team spots. “Playing is fundamental,” he added.

So what should Inter do with the freed-up funds? Bergomi suggested targeting Oumar Solet for defense and a midfielder like Jones, but cautioned against panic. “Inter made their best signing, Akanji, on deadline day last summer,” he recalled.

Bergomi’s parting words were clear: Bergomi Inter was the perfect choice for Palestra could have been the next Hakimi. Whether Palestra realizes that potential at Chelsea remains to be seen, but for Inter fans, this transfer will be one that got away.