Tolu Arokodare is expected to join a new club this summer, and it might just be Serie A side Atalanta
Italian Serie A club Atalanta have lined up Tolu Arokodare and two other strikers as potential replacements for Mateo Retegui, Soccernet.ng reports.
Retegui was one of the best buys from last summer's transfer window. He joined Atalanta from Genoa in a deal worth €20.9 million, and he adjusted pretty nicely to life in Bergamo and performed way above expectations.
The Italian marksman contributed goals 28 goals and nine assists in 49 appearances for La Dea.
However, following his impressive performances, Atalanta have cashed in on him, selling him to Saudi Arabian club Al Qadisiah in a deal worth €68.25 million.
Retegui has arrived
Welcome to Khobar! ❤️#AlQadsiah | #ReteguiQadsawi pic.twitter.com/OV6xR3C2vZ— AlQadsiah Saudi Club (@AlQadsiahEN) July 21, 2025
With Retegui exiting Atalanta, the club now have to sign a replacement. They have already been linked with Super Eagles striker Arokodare.
The 24-year-old striker has grown significantly since joining from Amiens two years ago. Last season, he reached personal best of 23 goals and seven assists in 36 appearances across all competitions.
He is expected to leave Genk this summer, and has been linked with multiple clubs like Fulham, Atalanta, Benfica, Manchester United, and other clubs in the top five leagues.
Now, per Italian football transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, Atalanta are seriously considering a move for Arokodare.
However, they are also looking at two other strikers － Lecce's Nikola Krstović and Alex Iwobi's Fulham teammate Rodrigo Muniz.
La Dea are expected to make a decision soon. And if they decide to sign Arokodare, they won't waste time in completing the transfer, as Genk will let him leave for around €25 million. Moreover, they have over €60 million in the bank from Retegui's sale.
Can Tolu Arokodare shine at Atalanta?
Tolu Arokodare is 24, but he still has some untapped potential. His game has grown and improved year on year, so he could perform well if he works under a good manager.
His body gives him an advantage, as he is big and strong. His hold-up play is quite impressive.
Many tall players are not good with the ball on their feet. But Arokodare, despite being 6 feet 6, is quite decent with the ball at his feet.
He also has a significant presence in the box and does well in aerial situations. Last season, he won 63% of his aerial duels in the Juplier Pro League.
Arokodare's finishing can be disappointing at times, but it can still improve with time. The switch from Belgium to Italy might be tough, but Arokodare should just be able to fit in well.
