Albanian Mario Mitaj emerges as hot transfer target for European clubs

Mario Mitaj is returning as one of the most sought-after names in the transfer market for the left-back position.

The Albanian national team defender, currently playing for Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, is attracting interest from several well-known European clubs, including Atletico Madrid and Sunderland, CE Report quotes ATA.

According to reports from Fichajes.net, Atletico Madrid is looking for a left-back to fit Diego Simeone’s tactical system.

The primary target for the Madrid club had been Carlos Romero from Villarreal, but the price of around €45 million led the club to pull out of negotiations.

In this context, Mitaj is seen as a much more economical alternative with great potential for development.

The 22-year-old Albanian has delivered very convincing performances with Al Ittihad, significantly increasing his market value.

Currently, his transfer value is estimated at around €5.5 million, while Atletico Madrid would be willing to offer up to twice that amount to secure his services.

Sunderland, playing in the Premier League, has also shown interest in Mitaj, adding competition for the signature of the Albanian defender.

For this reason, Al Ittihad is not willing to negotiate for less than €10 million, considering that they signed the player only a year ago from Lokomotiv Moscow for €4 million.

Another detail fueling speculation about a possible departure is that Mitaj was unavailable for the last three matches, raising questions about his future at the Saudi club.

Mitaj is under contract with Al Ittihad until the summer of 2028, but his form and interest from major European clubs could see him return to a top European league very soon.