Atalanta complete signing of striker Nikola Krstovic from Lecce
Atalanta have completed the permanent signing of striker Nikola Krstovic from fellow Serie A side Lecce, the club confirmed on Friday. The Montenegrin forward, who spent the previous season on loan at the Gewiss Stadium, has now made the move to Bergamo a full transfer. While the precise financial details were not disclosed by either club, it is understood Atalanta have exercised a purchase option that was included as part of the initial loan agreement last summer.
Krstovic, 24, joined Atalanta on a season-long loan ahead of the 2024-25 campaign after a prolific debut season with Lecce, where his goals were instrumental in securing the Salentini's top-flight survival. During his loan spell under manager Raffaele Palladino, he has provided valuable attacking depth, scoring eight goals across all competitions despite often operating as an understudy to Italy international Gianluca Scamacca. His adaptability and proven Serie A experience made the decision to secure his services on a permanent basis a straightforward one for the Atalanta hierarchy.
The move represents sensible business for both clubs. For Atalanta, it secures a reliable and cost-effective attacking option who is already fully integrated into Palladino's system as they continue to compete on multiple fronts, including a Coppa Italia semi-final against Lazio. For Lecce, the transfer provides a significant financial boost as they navigate a tense battle against relegation in the current season, with the funds potentially available to reinforce the squad in the summer window under manager Eusebio Di Francesco.
Krstovic's journey underscores a rapid rise in Italian football. He arrived at Lecce from Slovak side DAC Dunajská Streda in the summer of 2023 and immediately became a fan favorite, his physical presence and finishing making him a consistent threat. His performances in Bergamo this season, including a crucial equalizer in a 2-2 draw with Lazio in the Coppa Italia, have demonstrated his capacity to contribute for a side with European ambitions. His permanent acquisition is viewed as a move that bolsters squad depth for the long term.
With this deal now finalized, Atalanta can plan for the future with Krstovic as part of their attacking corps alongside Scamacca. For Lecce, the focus shifts entirely to their survival fight, having lost a key player from their recent past but gained important resources for the club's future stability. The striker could face his former club as early as next Monday, when Atalanta travels to the Via del Mare stadium for a pivotal Serie A clash.
