Atlético Madrid Closing In on Matteo Ruggeri Signing from Atalanta

Atlético Madrid are about to sign Italian left-back Matteo Ruggeri from Atalanta. The deal is worth €17 million with an additional €3 million in potential add-ons. This signing is part of Atlético Madrid’s plan to strengthen their defense for the upcoming La Liga season.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Atlético Madrid and Atalanta have agreed on Matteo Ruggeri‘s transfer after weeks of negotiations. The 22-year-old will join Madrid for a fee of €17 million, with bonuses also included in the deal.

Ruggeri is expected to start as Atlético’s first-choice left-back, replacing Reinildo Mandava. Also, Javi Galán will move to a backup position after failing to impress last season.

WHY THIS TRANSFER MATTERS

Atlético wanted to sign Theo Hernandez from Milan and Angelino from Roma but failed to secure the deals. Instead, the club landed Ruggeri, who is young and has experience playing for the Italian national team. Atlético finished third in La Liga last season and are determined to improve their squad after falling behind Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Ruggeri’s arrival is part of the club’s efforts to address defensive gaps, with the team conceding more goals than rivals Madrid and Barcelona in the previous campaign.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ATLÉTICO MADRID?

Atlético Madrid will now focus on other summer transfers, targeting Johnny Cardoso and Alex Baena. The team will begin their 2025/26 La Liga season in August, and will want to start preparing for the new season as soon as possible.

Ruggeri will be under the spotlight as he has to adapt to Simeone’s system while competing for a regular starting spot.