Mateo Retegui, who recently finished as Serie A’s top scorer with 25 goals, has transferred to Saudi club Al-Qadsiah for approximately €60 million. This transfer, which outbid a €40 million offer from AC Milan, marks a significant moment for Atalanta, leaving them needing to replace a key scoring asset. Retegui’s departure highlights the shifting circumstances in football, particularly as clubs worldwide adapt to the rising financial influence of leagues like the Saudi Pro League. For further observations, consider the changing implications of such transfers.
After an extraordinary season in Serie A, Mateo Retegui, who emerged as the league’s top scorer with 25 goals, has made headlines with his transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah. This achievement marks Retegui as only the second Atalanta player to win the Capocannoniere award, following the legendary Filippo Inzaghi, who last held the accolade in the 1996-97 season.
Remarkably, Retegui significantly improved in his second season after a debut plagued by injuries, scoring 25 goals.
Remarkably, Retegui accomplished this feat in his second season in the league, improving considerably from a debut season where injuries limited him to just seven goals in 29 appearances.
The transfer to Al-Qadsiah, reportedly valued at around €60 million, eclipsed bids from European rivals, particularly AC Milan, who appraised him at €40 million. Initially, Atalanta had set the transfer fee at €50 million, reflecting Retegui’s newly established status as a prolific scorer.
His departure echoes the increasing financial power and ambition of the Saudi Pro League, which has made substantial investments in top football talent.
Retegui, known for his aerial ability and sharp finishing, quickly progressed into a traditional number nine strike force, contributing not only to Atalanta’s attack but also earning accolades like Serie A Player of the Month in October 2024.
His impressive scoring also translated on the international stage, as he represented Italy, marking an outstanding start with goals in his first two competitive matches.
With Retegui’s exit, Atalanta faces the challenge of replacing an essential asset, while the striker market continues to adjust amid increasing demand.
This evolving shift indicates a groundbreaking period in football, as clubs adapt to both player movements and market valuations.
References
- https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/serie-a-top-scorers-2024-25/blt328a19edeeeb3851
- https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/ac-milan-compete-saudi-arabia-interest-sign-serie-a-top-scorer/blt0854ba680dfba9a1
- https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/serie-a/articles/al-qadsiah-confirm-blockbuster-transfer-for-atalantas-retegui-2025-07-21
