Nicolò Zaniolo Signs New Udinese Contract Until 2029, Ending Salary Dispute

FolioPitch.com – 22 July 2026 | Nicolò Zaniolo has officially ended his salary stand-off with Udinese by signing a new contract that ties him to the club until June 2029, with an option to extend for a further year. The long-awaited agreement brings closure to a tense period during which the Italian international abandoned pre-season training for over a week in protest over his wages. Zaniolo and Udinese end salary stand-off with new contract to 2029, confirming a deal that sees the 26-year-old attacker commit his prime years to the Friuli outfit.

Details of the New Contract

According to reports from Sky Sport Italia, the final details were ironed out earlier today, leading to Zaniolo signing the new deal. The contract runs until June 2029, but Udinese hold an option to extend it by an additional year. The improved salary is now reported to be worth €2 million per season, with a restructured division between fixed wages and performance-related bonuses. This resolution marks a significant moment as Zaniolo and Udinese end salary stand-off with new contract to 2029, a saga that threatened to derail the club’s season.

Background of the Stand-off

Zaniolo arrived at Udinese on transfer deadline day last summer from Galatasaray, moving on an initial loan with an option to buy at the end of the season. The rushed nature of the deal meant that the two parties agreed to revisit the issue of his wages once the campaign concluded. That proved contentious, as negotiations over personal terms dragged on, ultimately leading to Zaniolo walking out of pre-season training. The stand-off became a major talking point in Italian football, with many questioning the player’s commitment. However, the breakthrough came today as Zaniolo and Udinese end salary stand-off with new contract to 2029, putting an end to weeks of uncertainty.

Performance and Impact

In his debut season with Udinese, Zaniolo made 34 competitive appearances, contributing six goals and six assists. His creativity and direct running have made him a key figure in the team’s attack. The new contract ensures that Udinese retain a player who possesses immense talent, despite his injury history. The deal also has implications for Galatasaray, who are entitled to 50% of any future transfer fee. By securing Zaniolo’s long-term future, Udinese hope to build a competitive side around him. The resolution of this salary issue allows the player to fully focus on the pitch, and Zaniolo and Udinese end salary stand-off with new contract to 2029, a development that fans and management alike will welcome.

Conclusion

With the contract signed, Udinese can now shift their attention to the upcoming season, knowing that one of their standout performers is committed for the long haul. For Zaniolo, the new deal represents a fresh start and a chance to reignite a career that once promised so much. The salary stand-off, which had cast a shadow over the club’s preparations, is finally resolved. As the dust settles, all parties will hope that this agreement marks the beginning of a successful partnership. Undoubtedly, the resolution of this stand-off is a positive outcome for both Zaniolo and Udinese, who can now move forward together.