Italian striker Mateo Retegui has officially completed a high-profile transfer to Al-Qadsiah in the Saudi Pro League, marking one of the most expensive deals of the summer. The 26-year-old leaves Atalanta after a prolific season in Serie A, with the total transfer fee reportedly reaching €67 million, including add-ons. Retegui passed his medical on July 17, 2025, and signed a long-term contract that will see his salary skyrocket to over six times what he earned in Italy.
Retegui’s departure from Atalanta comes after a sensational 2024–25 campaign in which he scored 24 goals in 32 Serie A appearances, claiming the league’s Golden Boot. He had only joined Atalanta from Genoa in August 2024 for a fee of around €20.9 million, making his rise both rapid and remarkable. His scoring touch also carried over to the international stage, where he made an immediate impact for Italy, scoring on his debut against England and contributing to the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers.
Before the Saudi switch, Retegui was linked with a number of elite European clubs. Arsenal, Manchester United, Juventus, Napoli, PSG, and Aston Villa all expressed varying degrees of interest. Arsenal were even reported to have made contact with Atalanta, considering a bid in the €45–60 million range. However, the financial power of Al-Qadsiah ultimately secured his signature.
The move has stirred debate among fans and pundits alike. While the transfer cements Retegui’s status as one of the most valuable strikers in world football—with a market value estimated between €37.5M and €45.8M prior to the deal—some have raised concerns about how playing in a less competitive league might affect his form and future with the Italy national team.
Still, the opportunity for financial security and a leading role in a growing league clearly appealed to Retegui. His move is a major statement of intent from Al-Qadsiah and another sign of Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the global transfer market.
