27.05.2026 19:20
Gianluca Nani, the Sporting Director of Italian Serie A team Udinese, made striking statements about Nicolo Zaniolo, who joined the squad on loan from Galatasaray. Stating that they want to include Zaniolo in their squad, Nani said, "We definitely aim to sign him permanently. Zaniolo also said 'yes' to the offer we made."
Nicolo Zaniolo, who joined Galatasaray's squad during the 2022-2023 season's mid-season transfer window, wore the jerseys of Aston Villa, Atalanta, and Fiorentina respectively after his time with the yellow-reds, and was most recently loaned to Udinese.
ZANIOLO WANTS UDINESE
Unlike other teams, the experienced attacking player, who found the regular opportunities he was seeking at Italian representative Udinese, made it clear that he does not want to return to Turkey by deciding to continue his career in Italy.
''HE SAID 'YES' TO THE OFFER WE MADE''
Following these developments, a move from Udinese's side came to make the transfer official. The club's Sporting Director, Gianluca Nani, stated in his remarks to renowned journalist Di Marzio that they are determined to acquire Zaniolo's registration from Galatasaray. Emphasizing that they want to continue with the Italian star, Nani said, "We definitely aim to permanently add him to our squad. Zaniolo also responded 'yes' to the offer we presented."
ZANIOLO'S FAREWELL MESSAGE TO UDINESE
The 26-year-old player, who has a contract with Galatasaray until 2028, recorded a performance of 6 goals and 7 assists in 38 official matches wearing the Udinese jersey. Following a successful season, Zaniolo bid farewell to the fans and the club, saying, "If they had asked me at the beginning of the season what kind of year I envisioned, I would have described exactly what I experienced. This place made me feel at home from the very first moment; it restored my passion for playing football and the joy of stepping onto the field with a smile every day. In my life off the field, this wonderful city gifted me my second son Leonardo and marriage to the love of my life. In short, everything was perfect! Now it's time for a short vacation to achieve our unfinished goals and return much stronger. Thank you, Udinese; you have taken a very special place in my heart, and no matter what, you will always remain there."