Zaniolo Ends Standoff, Signs New Deal with Udinese Until 2029

FolioPitch.com – 20 July 2026 | Nicolò Zaniolo has finally resolved his contract dispute with Udinese, as reports confirm that Zaniolo reaches new agreement with Udinese for contract to 2029. The attacking midfielder, who had refused to attend pre-season training, is expected to resume training on Tuesday after a verbal agreement was reached on a new deal that runs until June 2029, with an option for an additional season.

The saga began when Zaniolo joined Udinese last summer on deadline day from Galatasaray. The move was rushed, featuring a loan with an option to buy, but the salary terms were deferred to the end of the campaign. When negotiations over a permanent contract proved difficult, Zaniolo stayed away from pre-season, citing a doctor’s note while his representatives continued talks.

Multiple sources including Sky Sport Italia, Sportitalia, and Calciomercato are now confident that the impasse is over. The new agreement assures Zaniolo reaches new agreement with Udinese for contract to 2029, worth approximately €2 million per season in wages plus bonuses. Importantly, the structure has been revised to guarantee a larger fixed salary rather than relying heavily on performance-related add-ons.

Zaniolo, 26, has shown flashes of his brilliant form at Roma during his time in Udine, contributing goals and assists while adapting to coach Kosta Runjaić’s system. His versatility in attacking midfield and on the wing makes him a key asset for the Friulani. The club had been firm in their desire to keep him, and this long-term commitment signals their ambition to build around him.

The resolution comes as a relief for Udinese fans, who had grown anxious over the prolonged negotiations. The club’s sporting director, Federico Balzaretti, played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the player’s demands and the club’s budgetary constraints. The finalized contract also includes a buyout clause, believed to be set at a reasonable figure for future suitors, but the priority is to have Zaniolo focused on the pitch.

Zaniolo’s journey has been marked by ups and downs, including two anterior cruciate ligament injuries that derailed his progress at Roma. After a stint at Galatasaray that didn’t live up to expectations, his move to Udinese was seen as a chance to revive his career. Last season, he managed 6 goals and 4 assists in 28 league appearances, showcasing the raw talent that once made him one of Italy’s most promising prospects.

The news that Zaniolo reaches new agreement with Udinese for contract to 2029 also impacts Italy’s national team ambitions. With the European qualifiers approaching, regular playing time under a stable contract will benefit his chances of returning to the Azzurri fold. Coach Luciano Spalletti has kept an eye on his performances, and a full pre-season without distractions could be the foundation for a strong campaign.

This development is a win-win for both parties. Udinese secures a talented player for the long term, while Zaniolo gains financial stability and a platform to rebuild his reputation. The club’s patient approach in negotiations reflects their confidence in his ability to return to top form. As the Serie A season gears up, Zaniolo’s presence will be pivotal for Udinese’s push for a top-half finish and possibly European contention.

In conclusion, the protracted standoff has ended positively. Zaniolo reaches new agreement with Udinese for contract to 2029, ending weeks of uncertainty. The player is set to sign the contract and immediately join his teammates in training. The focus now shifts to the pitch, where Zaniolo can prove that this long-term commitment is justified. For Udinese, retaining a player of his caliber is a statement of intent, and for Zaniolo, it’s a fresh start in a familiar environment where he can thrive.