Nicolò Zaniolo is reportedly on the verge of resolving his contract stand-off with Udinese, with a renewed agreement potentially finalised within the next 24 hours. The Italy international has refused to attend pre-season training sessions since the club activated their purchase option from Galatasaray, but talks have now advanced sufficiently to suggest a return to the squad by Monday or Tuesday.
Breakthrough after Milan approach
According to Sky Sport Italia, negotiations between the midfielder and the Serie A side have gathered momentum after weeks of tension. Zaniolo’s representatives had reportedly offered the 27-year-old to several clubs during the impasse, with AC Milan identified as the primary alternative destination. However, discussions with Udinese have now taken precedence, potentially ending the prospect of an immediate departure.
The dispute arose after Udinese exercised their option to convert Zaniolo’s loan into a permanent transfer. The club paid €7.5 million to Galatasaray, with an additional 50 per cent share of any future sale fee heading to the Turkish giants. Although the player’s existing contract runs until June 2029, he has been seeking improved wages and terms commensurate with the permanent nature of the deal, which was arranged last August with the understanding that financial terms would be revisited upon activation of the clause.
From deadline-day loan to permanent dispute
Zaniolo initially joined Udinese on a season-long loan from Galatasaray last summer, with the move completed on deadline day. The arrangement included a conditional obligation to buy, which the club triggered at the campaign’s conclusion. The 27-year-old subsequently presented a medical certificate to justify his absence from pre-season preparations, though the exact nature of the issue was not disclosed publicly.
During his debut season in northeastern Italy, Zaniolo contributed six goals and six assists across 34 appearances in all competitions. His creative output proved valuable as Udinese established themselves comfortably in the top flight, and his reintegration would provide a significant boost to their attacking options ahead of the new campaign.
What happens next
Should the final details be concluded as anticipated, Zaniolo is expected to rejoin his teammates for training at the start of the week. The resolution would secure his immediate future at the club and allow the coaching staff to count on a proven Serie A performer as they prepare for their season opener. For Zaniolo, the agreement would end a turbulent summer and allow him to focus on recapturing the form that once made him one of Italy’s most highly regarded young midfielders.