Negotiations Stall Over Nicolò Zaniolo’s Return to Serie A

Negotiations for Nicolò Zaniolo’s transfer from Galatasaray to Udinese are currently stuck. In the last 48 hours, both the clubs and the player’s representatives have conducted talks but have not reached an agreement.

Despite the hurdles, Zaniolo is still keen to go back to Serie A.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Udinese have negotiated with Galatasaray and Zaniolo’s camp to secure the services of the 26-year-old Italy international. There is, however, a considerable distance between the parties, notably with regard to Galatasaray’s demand for a permanent transfer and Udinese’s financial terms.

While Udinese are exploring different options to fit their budget, Galatasaray wants to sell Zaniolo permanently, especially after losing strikers Lorenzo Lucca and Florian Thauvin, both of whom have been instrumental in their attacking lineup.

In recent days, other Serie A clubs are also reported to have initiated talks for Zaniolo.

RECENT PERFORMANCES AND TEAM CONTEXT

After spending the previous season on loan at Fiorentina, where he was unable to sign a long-term contract due to limited playing time and a suspension, Zaniolo is returning to Galatasaray. Fiorentina had stated that Zaniolo’s €15 million (£13m/$16m) buyout option would not be exercised. The attacker had previously played for Atalanta and Aston Villa in the Premier League on loan, but he was unable to find his form.

Udinese, meanwhile, ended last season near the bottom in Serie A, just managing to avoid being demoted. They are now assembling a new team, especially after losing key players in the attack, such as Lorenzo Lucca, who was sold to Napoli. As things stand, they are looking to strengthen their offensive capabilities quickly.

Galatasaray, the current Turkish champions, are looking forward to competing in the Champions League group stage and the upcoming Süper Lig season, and they want to resolve Zaniolo’s future soon.

WHAT NEXT FOR ZANIOLO AND THE CLUBS?

To close the gap with Galatasaray and the player’s representatives, Udinese will continue negotiations with them. The Turkish club is in a strong position during the talks because Zaniolo is still under contract with them until June 2027.

While rival Serie A teams are now in touch with Zaniolo, the Udinese board is keeping an eye on other offensive targets. They will open their Serie A campaign with a difficult game against Lazio, who finished in the top four last season.

In order to prevent a further season of struggling at the bottom, Udinese will aim to settle its attacking difficulties quickly. Both they and Zaniolo are seeking consistency after a time of unpredictability and frequent relocations.