Giuntoli wants Savona reunion as Atalanta open talks with Nottingham Forest

Cristiano Giuntoli is pursuing a reunion with Nicolò Savona at Atalanta, with direct talks underway between the Bergamo club and Nottingham Forest over a deal for the former Juventus right-back, a move that could have significant knock-on consequences for Inter Milan’s pursuit of Marco Palestra.

According to Matteo Moretto on Fabrizio Romano’s YouTube channel, via Goal, contacts are ongoing between Atalanta and Forest for Savona, who joined the English club permanently last summer in a deal worth €13 million plus €2.5 million in bonuses.

Giuntoli, who worked closely with Savona during his time at Juventus, is keen to bring the Italian back to Serie A as he shapes incoming head coach Maurizio Sarri’s squad for next season

The significance of the pursuit extends well beyond Atalanta’s own planning.

Palestra plays in the same right-back position as Savona, and his departure would give Atalanta both the funds and the positional cover to sanction a sale.

Inter have already agreed personal terms with Palestra on a five-year contract worth approximately €2 million per season, but Atalanta are holding firm at €50 million and have already rejected an opening offer of €45 million.

Manchester City remain a threat in the background, with manager Enzo Maresca a known admirer of Palestra’s profile. Whether Savona’s arrival at Atalanta proves to be the key that unlocks the entire operation remains to be seen, but the pieces are beginning to fall into place.