Atalanta continues its search for a striker to replace Gianluca Scamacca, and the process needs to be both thorough and swift. The Bergamo club is looking for a reliable forward who can lead the attack under coach Gian Piero Gasperini in Serie A, the Champions League, and potentially the UEFA Super Cup against Real Madrid this Wednesday.
One of the latest names in the frame is Mateo Retegui. The Argentinian forward, who has international experience with Italy and in the Copa Sudamericana, fits the club’s profile well. He already has a good understanding of Italian football, which could ease his integration into the team. However, Genoa poses a challenge in negotiations, as they would prefer not to let both Retegui and Albert Gudmundsson (who is linked to Fiorentina) leave. The discussions for Gudmundsson are not yet finalized, leaving the situation very much open.
Retegui, who was part of Luciano Spalletti’s squad during the last European Championship alongside Scamacca, offers the combination of skill in various football environments and familiarity with Serie A. This could lead to a quicker adaptation should he be signed.
Another strong candidate is Beto from Everton. While he may lack international club experience, he has played two seasons in Serie A, scoring 11 and 10 goals respectively in those campaigns. His impressive stature (standing at 194 cm) could make him an ideal target man for Gasperini’s style of play. Beto recently netted a double against Motherwell in a friendly, but that alone won’t determine his future. If Atalanta presents an enticing offer, including the opportunity to play in the Champions League, it might prompt a transfer. A potential deal could involve El Bilal Touré moving in the opposite direction to persuade Everton.
For international experience, Giovanni Simeone from Napoli is a notable option. He has played 17 matches in major competitions like the Champions League and Copa Sudamericana, scoring a total of 7 goals, including strikes against Real Madrid and Liverpool, both significant opponents for Atalanta in Europe. Currently, there is no ongoing negotiation between Atalanta and Napoli for Simeone, though discussions had been taking place over another player, Folorunsho, which concluded with a deal valued at €15 million plus bonuses. With Scamacca’s injury, Atalanta will need to shift its focus, with a potential plan involving a loan with an obligation to buy in the works.
Lastly, Andrea Pinamonti is another name to consider. A contemporary of Scamacca, Pinamonti’s previous season with Sassuolo did not go well, culminating in relegation. It is understood that he will be leaving, with a valuation around €12 million to avoid a financial loss for his current club.
As Atalanta explores these options, the clock is ticking to secure a new forward who can make an impact both domestically and on the European stage.