Atalanta Moves to Secure Balestra's Replacement

Atalanta is preparing to make its first official offer to sign Italian defender Nicolo Savona, a Nottingham Forest player, in anticipation of the potential departure of their young talent Marco Balestra during the summer transfer window.

According to Italian reports, Atalanta's management has identified Savona as the first choice to replace any potential departure of Ballistra, who is attracting increasing interest from several major European clubs, including those in the English Premier League, as well as interest from prominent Italian clubs.

Savona, a graduate of Juventus Academy, is highly regarded within Atalanta, especially by the sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, who knows the player well from his previous tenure at Juventus. Sources also indicate that the coaching staff has given the green light to proceed with the deal.

The 23-year-old had moved to Nottingham Forest last summer before suffering a severe injury that ended his season early. However, the rehabilitation process is progressing positively, which led Atalanta to see him as a suitable investment for the future despite concerns about his return from injury.

With Atalanta nearing the presentation of its first official offer, the coming days seem crucial for Savona's future, especially if the club receives a substantial offer to sell Ballestra, a scenario that could significantly expedite the completion of the deal.