According to the source, "Al-Shabab" has already made a blue-white-blue offer for the Colombian striker. "Al-Ittihad", for its part, is considering Casserra as a possible replacement for the team's star striker, Karim Benzema, who could soon leave the club and return to Europe.
Let us recall that during the current season, Mateo, 26, has made 22 appearances in all competitions for Zenit, scoring 15 goals and providing five assists. Casserra's current contract with the blue-white-blue runs until June 30, 2025. Online portal Transfermarkt estimates the market value of the Colombian striker at €9 million. Zenit currently occupies second place in the Russian Premier League heading into the winter break.
The move comes as a surprise, as Casserra has been a key player for Zenit since joining the club in 2020. The Colombian forward has established himself as one of the top scorers in the Russian Premier League, and his consistent performances have attracted the attention of other clubs, both domestically and internationally.
A potential move to Al-Shabab would represent a new challenge for Casserra, as he would be tasked with helping the Saudi club compete for titles in the highly competitive Saudi Professional League. Meanwhile, a move to Al-Ittihad could see him reunite with former teammate Karim Benzema, who is rumoured to be considering a return to Europe.
Regardless of Casserra's destination, the transfer saga will certainly be closely followed by fans of Russian and Saudi football. Zenit will be keen to keep their star striker, but could be tempted to cash in on him if the offer from Al-Shabab or Al-Ittihad is substantial enough.
In the meantime, Casserra will focus on continuing his good form with Zenit, who are aiming for the league title in the second half of the season. With his contract not expiring until 2025, the club hold a strong negotiating position, but the lure of a new challenge abroad could prove too much for the player to resist.
As the January transfer window approaches, the future of Mateo Casserra will be a story to follow closely in the world of football.
