Francesco Totti predicted a bright future for Italy striker Mateo Retegui almost three years ago: ‘An incredible talent, he’s devastating’ but Roma reportedly refused to sign him.
Totti spoke about the Argentine-born forward in June 2020 during a live Instagram chat with his former Italy teammate Christian Vieri.
“I’m in talks with incredible talent from Argentina, he’s very strong. Can play as a centre forward or a support striker and he’s devastating. I can’t say his name, otherwise, somebody else will steal him.”
It later emerged that the legendary Roma striker was talking about Retegui.
The 23-year-old has been called up by Roberto Mancini and has scored two goals in his first two appearances with the Azzurri.
His grandfather was Italian, so Retegui is eligible to play for Italy despite being born in Argentina.
Totti’s CT10Management eventually put the striker under contract and according to Repubblica, he was offered to Roma and Sampdoria who refused to sign the Argentina-born forward.
Retegui’s father Carlos is now the agent of the 23-year-old who has been linked with a move to Serie A. According to reports in Italy, Inter are leading the race to secure his signature in the summer.
He needs to go Milan. They need a striker. I feel if he goes Inter he won’t get games.