Atlético Madrid and Atalanta are poised to finalise a €20 million transfer for Italian left-back Matteo Ruggeri, with all paperwork expected to be signed on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.
According to sources like Marca and transfer expert Nicolo Schira, the deal includes a fixed fee of €17 million (£14.5m) plus €3 million (£2.5m) in performance-related add-ons, which are considered easily achievable.
The agreement marks a significant coup for Atlético as they bolster their squad for the 2025-26 La Liga and Champions League campaigns under manager Diego Simeone.
Ruggeri, a 22-year-old product of Atalanta’s renowned youth academy, has emerged as one of Serie A’s most promising defenders.
Since his senior debut in 2020, the Italy U21 international has made 90 appearances for Atalanta, including 34 in the 2024-25 Serie A season, where he contributed two goals and five assists.
His versatility, defensive solidity, and ability to contribute offensively from the left flank have made him a prime target for Simeone, who seeks to strengthen Atlético’s backline following an inconsistent season.
Fans have hailed Ruggeri as a “perfect fit” for Atlético’s high-intensity, disciplined system, with fans praising his work rate and crossing ability.
Negotiations between Atlético and Atalanta progressed swiftly after initial talks last week, with the Bergamo club initially holding out for a higher fee for their homegrown star.
Ruggeri’s contract, set to expire in 2026, prompted Atalanta to secure a deal to avoid losing him on a lower fee or free transfer next year.
The €3 million add-ons are tied to achievable metrics, such as appearances and team performance, ensuring Atalanta could maximise their return on the player who helped them win the 2024 Europa League.
Atlético’s pursuit of Ruggeri aligns with their broader transfer strategy, which includes recent signings like Alexander Sørloth and Robin Le Normand to reinforce key positions.
The club is also in talks to offload fringe players like Saúl Ñíguez to balance their wage bill, as reported by AS. Ruggeri’s arrival is expected to provide competition for Samuel Lino and Reinildo Mandava at left-back, offering Simeone tactical flexibility.
The signing has sparked excitement among Atlético fans, with many anticipating Ruggeri’s seamless integration into La Liga.
As the transfer window heats up, this move positions Atlético as a serious contender in Spain and Europe. The deal’s completion on Tuesday will mark another milestone in Atlético’s ambitious squad rebuild.
