News Focus
- Solet reveals Napoli tried to sign him from Red Bull Salzburg but the Austrian club blocked the transfer
- Inter Milan view the Udinese centre-back as a long-term replacement for defender Alessandro Bastoni
- Newcastle United have registered interest in taking the French-Ivorian to the Premier League
- The 26-year-old started as a midfielder and criticises the cautious defensive style common in Italian football
Udinese defender Oumar Solet has explained why he did not join Napoli earlier in his career. The centre-back also spoke about interest from Inter Milan and English clubs. He joined the Italian team in January 2025 as a free agent.
Solet said Napoli wanted to sign him when he played for Red Bull Salzburg. However, the Austrian club would not sell him. Later, he left Salzburg after a contract problem and moved to Udinese.
The 26-year-old praised Serie A. He said it is one of the three best leagues in the world. He thinks the quality has risen a lot in recent years. He also said the league uses many tactics.
Inter Milan see Solet as a possible replacement for Alessandro Bastoni. Newcastle United have also shown interest in the player. When asked about Serie A versus the Premier League, Solet said he likes both competitions. He added that La Liga and Ligue 1 are also attractive.
Despite the rumours, Solet wants to focus on Udinese. He said the club trusts him and gives him regular games. He feels at home in the city centre, which helps him work hard.
Solet started his career as a midfielder. He moved to defence when he was 17 years old. This history makes him comfortable with the ball at his feet.
He believes Italian defenders often avoid risks. But Solet likes to play forward passes without fear. He thinks Italian football needs more bravery.
The player has dual citizenship with France and Ivory Coast. He has not decided which national team to join. He wants to make the right choice for his future.