Matteo Ruggeri Heads to Atlético Madrid in €20 Million Transfer

Atlético Madrid are close to finalizing the signing of left-back Matteo Ruggeri from Atalanta. The €20 million transfer includes bonuses, and Ruggeri is expected to sign a five-year contract after completing his medical tests.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Atlético Madrid have agreed to a transfer deal with Atalanta for 22-year-old Italian defender Matteo Ruggeri. The total package with bonuses is around €20 million. After evaluating multiple left-back options, including Andy Robertson from Liverpool and Theo Hernández from Milan, Atlético chose to pursue Ruggeri. The defender’s medical tests are scheduled as the transfer could be finalized within 48 hours.

A previous report confirms that Atlético Madrid have agreed to a transfer deal with Atalanta for Ruggeri.

RUGGERI’S RISE AND SKILL SET

Ruggeri is an Atalanta academy graduate and a key member of their first team. Last season, he made 38 appearances across competitions, providing three assists. Known for his versatility, Ruggeri can play as a left-back, wing-back, and occasionally as a center-back. His attacking, defending, and physical attributes suit Atlético, who have been searching for a full-back to fit their different defensive formations. Ruggeri has played for Italy at the U21 level and recently received a call-up to the senior squad.

WHAT NEXT FOR ATLÉTICO AND RUGGERI?

This signing becomes Atlético Madrid’s third addition to the team for the upcoming season, following new agreements for Johnny Cardoso and Álex Baena. The previous season saw Atlético finish in third place in LaLiga, securing a Champions League spot but 12 points behind champions Barcelona. Strengthening the left-back spot with Ruggeri is a key step as Diego Simeone’s team looks to close the gap at the top. Atlético Madrid’s preseason training will begin soon, and Ruggeri might make his competition debut in LaLiga’s August opener. Atalanta, who finished third in Serie A last season, will need to find a replacement for Ruggeri as they prepare for a Champions League return.