Atalanta pocket €80m fee as Serie A top scorer Mateo Retegui completes lucrative Saudi Arabia transfer to replace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Retegui has completed a high-profile transfer from Atalanta to Saudi side Al-Qadsiah after just one season in Serie A. The Italian striker has signed a four-year deal, replacing Aubameyang in the Saudi Pro League team's attack. According to Calciomercato, Atalanta will receive a total of €80 million (£67m/$91m), including a fixed fee of €65m (£55m/$74m), while Retegui is reportedly set to earn €20m (£17m/$23m) per season over a three-year contract.

The Italian striker joined Atalanta last summer from Genoa as cover for the injured Gianluca Scamacca. Under Gian Piero Gasperini, he thrived, netting 25 goals in 36 matches to become Serie A’s top scorer for 2024-25. His move to Saudi Arabia continues the league’s pattern of signing top European stars, especially those at the peak of their powers.

Retegui has become the most expensive Italian footballer ever and his new salary ranks among the highest in the Saudi Pro League. Known for his scoring prowess, he netted in eight consecutive Serie A matches during the 2024-25 season.

Al-Qadsiah expect Retegui to be the focal point of their attack in the upcoming campaign, as they push for domestic and continental success. For Atalanta, the sale provides a massive financial boost and room to reinvest in a younger forward or strengthen other areas.