Kamaldeen Sulemana Joins Atalanta in €17 Million Deal to Boost Serie A Attack
High-Profile Transfer Completed: Sulemana’s Move to Atalanta
Kamaldeen Sulemana, the talented Ghanaian winger, has officially transferred from Southampton to Atalanta for a base fee of €17 million, with potential add-ons of an additional €4 million, marking a significant move in the summer transfer window of 2025. The deal, confirmed recently, reunites the 23-year-old attacker with his former Southampton manager, Ivan Jurić, who coached him during the latter part of last season.
Sulemana has signed a long-term contract with Atalanta that runs until 2029, including an option for a one-year extension. Southampton secured a 15% sell-on clause, ensuring future financial benefit should Atalanta decide to sell the player onward. This transfer follows a hard negotiation phase in which Southampton initially rejected a €14 million offer before ultimately agreeing to the final terms.
Sulemana’s Southampton Journey: Challenges and Performance
Back in 2023, Sulemana moved to Southampton from Rennes for a club-record fee reported around £22 million. Expectations were high, but despite flashes of his electric pace and flair, the winger struggled to fully settle into the Premier League’s demanding environment during his two-and-a-half-year stint. He made 74 appearances for the Saints, scoring four goals and assisting seven times overall.
Last season, in particular, was difficult. Sulemana contributed just one goal and one assist across 26 league games. Southampton’s overall performance suffered as well, culminating in a last-place finish in the 2024/25 Premier League season and consequent relegation to the Championship. These struggles partly precipitated the winger’s exit, as both player and club sought new directions.
Atalanta’s Ambitions and Tactical Fit
Atalanta aims to reinforce their attacking options ahead of a challenging season domestically and in European competition. The club’s manager, Ivan Jurić, is known for an attacking philosophy that values speed and creativity—attributes Sulemana embodies.
The move is widely viewed as ideal for Kamaldeen’s career revival. Under Jurić, he had his longest run of games last season at Southampton, making 15 appearances together. At Atalanta, Sulemana is expected to play a key role on the flanks, utilizing his pace and direct style to enhance the team’s offensive threat.
Contract Details and Financial Implications
- Transfer fee: €17 million base + €4 million in performance-related add-ons
- Contract length: Until 2029 with a one-year extension option
- Southampton’s sell-on clause: 15% of any future transfer fee
These terms indicate Atalanta’s commitment to Sulemana as a cornerstone of their attacking line-up in the foreseeable future, while Southampton have secured financial protection should his market value rise.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Sulemana and Both Clubs
For Kamaldeen Sulemana, the Serie A move is an opportunity to reignite his career trajectory after a challenging spell in England. Atalanta’s environment, tactical system, and the reunion with Jurić present the perfect platform to showcase his abilities on a bigger stage.
Meanwhile, Southampton faces the difficult task of rebuilding after relegation, having lost one of their most expensive signings. The club’s future will hinge on how they manage the Championship campaign and potentially reinvest funds from this and other transfers.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Sulemana to see if he can translate his natural talent and pace into concrete success with Atalanta, adding a fresh edge to their attacking options.
Sources
- GhanaWeb
- Flashscore
- Citisports Online
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the total transfer fee agreed for Kamaldeen Sulemana’s move to Atalanta?
The deal was finalized at a base fee of €17 million, with an additional €4 million in performance-related add-ons, making the total potentially €21 million.
How long is Kamaldeen Sulemana’s contract with Atalanta?
Sulemana signed a contract lasting until 2029, with an option to extend for an additional year.
Did Southampton receive any special clauses in the transfer?
Yes, Southampton secured a 15% sell-on clause, entitling them to a percentage of any future transfer fee should Atalanta sell Sulemana.
Why did Kamaldeen Sulemana leave Southampton?
Sulemana struggled to fully adapt to the Premier League and Southampton’s relegation in the 2024/25 season made the move to Atalanta an attractive option to revive his career.
How will Sulemana fit into Atalanta’s team and tactics?
Atalanta’s manager Ivan Jurić favors a fast, attacking style that suits Sulemana’s pace and flair on the wings, making him a key part of the club’s plans for domestic and European competition.
This news was brought to you by:
