Manchester United’s quest to bolster their attacking options has taken a fresh turn, with reports suggesting the club is closely monitoring Atalanta striker Mateo Retegui. The Argentine-born Italian international has been in scintillating form this season, catching the eye of several top European clubs, including the Red Devils. However, as United consider their options, questions remain about whether Retegui is the right fit to address their ongoing struggles in front of goal.
A Struggling Attack in Need of Reinforcements
United’s attacking woes have been well-documented this season. Despite the presence of talented forwards like Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Rasmus Hojlund, the team has often lacked the clinical edge needed to compete at the highest level. While much of the criticism has been directed at Rashford and Garnacho for their inconsistent performances, Højlund’s struggles have been equally concerning.
The Danish striker, who joined United from Atalanta in a high-profile move last summer, has found it difficult to adapt to the physical demands of the Premier League. His touch, decision-making, and finishing have come under scrutiny, leading to audible frustration from the Old Trafford faithful. In recent weeks, Højlund has even been overshadowed by Joshua Zirkzee, whose performances have sparked speculation that United could look to offload the Dane in the summer.
Retegui Emerges as a Target
Amid this backdrop, United have reportedly turned their attention to Mateo Retegui, who has been one of Serie A’s standout performers this season. According to Fichajes, the Red Devils are “willing to take” the 25-year-old away from Atalanta, with the club viewing him as a potential solution to their attacking woes. Retegui has enjoyed a stellar campaign, netting 23 goals and providing four assists in 33 appearances across all competitions. His ability to find space in the box, combined with his clinical finishing, has made him one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe.
Retegui’s rise to prominence has been remarkable. After making his mark in Argentina with Tigre, he earned a move to Genoa before joining Atalanta last summer. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal also reportedly in the race for his signature. Atalanta, however, are unlikely to let their prized asset leave on the cheap, with a fee in the region of €50-60 million (£43-51 million) being touted as the starting point for negotiations.
A Proven Goal Scorer, But Is He the Right Fit?
While Retegui’s goal-scoring record is undeniably impressive, there are valid concerns about whether he would be the right fit for United. The Premier League is a notoriously difficult league for foreign players to adapt to, and United’s recent experiences with Serie A imports have been mixed. Both Højlund and Romelu Lukaku, who joined from Inter Milan, struggled to replicate their Italian form in England, raising questions about the wisdom of targeting another striker from the same league.
Retegui’s strengths lie in his movement and finishing, but his ability to handle the physicality and pace of the Premier League remains untested. United’s recent history suggests that they may be better served by targeting a striker with proven experience in England’s top flight or the Champions League. Names like Ivan Toney and Victor Osimhen have been linked with the club in recent months, and their familiarity with the demands of elite-level football could make them safer bets.
Competition and Financial Considerations
Securing Retegui’s signature will not be straightforward, with PSG and Arsenal also in the mix. Both clubs can offer Champions League football, something United are unlikely to provide next season unless they stage a remarkable turnaround in the league. Additionally, Atalanta’s valuation of €50-60 million represents a significant investment for a player who is yet to prove himself outside of Serie A.
Retegui’s contract runs until 2028, giving Atalanta a strong negotiating position. United’s hierarchy will need to weigh up whether the Argentine-Italian forward represents value for money, particularly given the club’s need to strengthen multiple areas of the squad.
A Critical Decision for United’s Future
As United continue their search for a reliable goal scorer, the decision to pursue Retegui will be a critical one. While his goal-scoring exploits in Serie A are enticing, the club must carefully consider whether he has the attributes to succeed in the Premier League. With competition for his signature heating up and a hefty price tag attached, United cannot afford another expensive gamble in the transfer market.
For now, Retegui remains an intriguing option, but the Red Devils may be better served by exploring alternatives with a proven track record in England or Europe’s elite competitions. As the summer transfer window approaches, United’s recruitment strategy will be under intense scrutiny, and the choice of striker could define their fortunes for years to come.
