Juventus, Como and Milan vie for Udinese’s Nicolò Zaniolo

Udinese’s Nicolò Zaniolo, who recorded five goals and five assists in Serie A this season, is at the centre of a three‑way tug‑of‑war as Juventus, Como and AC Milan intensify their pursuit, while a wage gap of €600,000‑700,000 threatens his stay at Udine.

Udinese secured Zaniolo’s permanent transfer from Galatasaray for roughly €5 million, with the Turkish club retaining a 50 percent stake in any future resale fee. His current contract runs until June 2029 and carries a net salary of €1.2 million per season.

Udinese have set an asking price of €15 million for Zaniolo, and Juventus have floated the inclusion of young Serbian talent Vasilije Adzic in a potential deal, a proposal that appeals to Udinese sporting director Nani. The club views Zaniolo as a key component alongside Keinan Davis in their attacking framework.

For Juventus, Zaniolo offers a credible and affordable alternative to their primary target Brahim Diaz, whose transfer is complicated by the Real Madrid situation. The Serie A giants are prepared to wait longer for Diaz, making Zaniolo an attractive short‑term solution.

Como’s Cesc Fabregas, now the club’s director, is also keen on acquiring Zaniolo, seeking Italian talent at accessible prices ahead of the team’s Champions League debut. The Spanish midfielder believes Zaniolo would bolster Como’s midfield for European competition.

AC Milan’s interest was confirmed after agent Vigorelli visited Udinese’s headquarters, although the Rossoneri’s lack of a confirmed sporting director complicates structuring a bid. During a Serie A match on 11 April 2026 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, Milan’s Davide Bartesaghi pressed Zaniolo, highlighting the on‑field rivalry.

Udinese would prefer to retain both Zaniolo and Keinan Davis as the core of their attack, underscoring the club’s reluctance to negotiate a higher wage. The wage dispute, estimated at €600,000‑700,000 per season, remains the main obstacle to a renewal.