After Marco Palestra’s performance against Juventus, Chelsea now have a dilemma

With Chelsea already possessing two quality right-backs in Reece James and Malo Gusto, not much is expected of Palestra in the upcoming campaign.

However, if his performances in pre-season are anything to go by, expectations will have to change. In fact, they may have already, and it will now be interesting to see what Xabi Alonso does with the 21-year-old. He could now have a real dilemma on his hands.

Thoughts after another pre-season defeat under Xabi Alonso?🤔

Chelsea could be forced to sell Malo Gusto to Manchester City as Marco Palestra continues to impress

It is early days, but Palestra looks capable of starting at right-back under Alonso. The only problem is the Spaniard already has James and Man City-linked Gusto.

Alonso will not be able to give all three men minutes in the new season, and after how he has played in pre-season so far, Palestra will feel that he deserves to start rather than be on the bench.

Chelsea will not sell the Italian yet after just buying him, while James is untouchable. That makes Gusto the most likely to leave, with the 23-year-old already attracting interest from Manchester City.

So far, the club appear to have priced Gusto out of a move this summer. It is thought that Chelsea value Gusto at £75m, a fee no one is going to pay for a developing full-back.

However, if Palestra can win a place in Alonso’s starting XI or at least push Gusto down the pecking order, the club could have a decision to make at some point.

Palestra was one of Chelsea’s best players against Juventus and will now be backing himself. As we approach deadline day, Chelsea’s right-back situation could be something to keep an eye on.

Of course, Palestra can also play at left-back, but with Pep Chavarria coming in to provide Jorrel Hato with competition, that position looks sorted.