Credits: IMAGO / Buzzi

Manchester United Target Mateo Retegui as Hunt for a Striker Intensifies

Credits: IMAGO / Buzzi

Manchester United are reportedly weighing up a move for Italy international Mateo Retegui. They’ve been looking to strengthen their forward options for some time under Ruben Amorim. The Red Devils’ attacking struggles have been apparent in these early months of the season.

It has prompted the club’s hierarchy to explore reinforcements capable of providing both experience and clinical finishing. They signed Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig during the summer. Even so, the Red Devils’ frontline remains a work in progress.

🚨 Manchester United are monitoring Al-Qadsiah striker Mateo Retegui as a potential £52M summer target to replace Zirkzee in 2026. The Italian forward, who starred for Atalanta and now has 11 goals in 24 games for Italy, could make a swift return to Europe.

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— United Agenda (@UTDPersiival) October 15, 2025

Sesko has shown promise but is still adapting to Premier League football. Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund’s loan spell at Napoli and Joshua Zirkzee’s uncertain future have left Amorim short of reliable options. They’ve managed just nine goals in their opening seven league games.

Hence, the need for a proven scorer is becoming increasingly pressing for the side. That search has reportedly led United to Mateo Retegui. The Italian forward is currently playing for Al-Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia. The 26-year-old joined the Middle Eastern club after a stellar campaign with Atalanta.

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In the Italian club, he netted 28 goals in all competitions before making the move. His move to Saudi Arabia last summer came as a surprise given his rapid rise in Serie A. But, not-so-surprisingly, his form has continued. He has scored three times in his first five league outings this season.

Mateo Retegui Profile and Transfer Prospects

Retegui has been a consistent presence for the Azzurri. He has scored 11 goals in 24 appearances for his country. It includes a string of decisive strikes in their ongoing World Cup qualifying campaign. He is known for his physicality, sharp movement, and composed finishing.

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These have earned him comparisons to classic Italian strikers. The same traits could make him an ideal fit for Amorim’s attacking system. Reports suggest that the Red Devils are monitoring his situation closely and are even prepared to offer between £45 million and £52 million to secure his signature.

Al-Qadsiah paid a significant fee for him earlier this year. However, the player’s desire to return to European football could influence negotiations. Retegui’s arrival would not only ease the burden on Sesko but also inject much-needed competition into United’s attacking department.

Manchester United

Mateo Retegui

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.