Cristiano Giuntoli has insisted that Atalanta will resist offers for key talents Marco Carnesecchi and Honest Ahanor, declaring that the Bergamo club “do not want to sell anyone” as the new director of sport settles into his role.
The former Napoli and Juventus official was appointed this summer and presented to the media alongside new coach Maurizio Sarri, who takes charge following his departure from Lazio. Giuntoli immediately moved to quash speculation surrounding the squad’s future, particularly regarding English interest in Ahanor.
“We want to keep our jewels,” Giuntoli stated when questioned about approaches from the Premier League. He confirmed that goalkeeper Carnesecchi will remain with the club, expressing confidence that the current group possesses sufficient quality to succeed under Sarri’s guidance.
Palestra transfer defended
The director’s assurances come after Atalanta completed the sale of wing-back Marco Palestra to Chelsea for €50 million plus add-ons. The transfer followed Palestra’s successful loan spell at Cagliari but generated controversy when Inter accused Atalanta and the player’s agent of reneging on an agreement.
Giuntoli robustly defended the transaction, asserting: “Everyone was fully aware of everything that went on. Palestra went to a big club and will represent Italy abroad. We were perfectly fair and correct with all parties.”
Despite Palestra’s exit, Atalanta retain depth on the right flank through Raoul Bellanova and Davide Zappacosta. The club has also strengthened its attacking options with the acquisition of Gianluca Gaetano.
Incoming business uncertain
Regarding potential arrivals, Giuntoli offered a cryptic response when asked about persistent reports linking the club with Bosnia and Herzegovina prospect Kerim Alajbegovic. Multiple sources suggest Atalanta are advancing ahead of Roma and Milan for the signature, but Giuntoli would only remark: “You read many things, we are focused on the pitch.”
The director expressed enthusiasm about working with Sarri, citing the coach’s “very clear identity and style of play” as complementary to a squad drawn from what Giuntoli described as a youth academy “that is the envy of the world.”