Juventus and Como lead race for Udinese’s Zaniolo as Milan also circle | OneFootball

Nicolò Zaniolo has rediscovered his best form following a productive season at Udinese, five goals and five assists in Serie A, and is now attracting a three-way battle between Juventus, Como and Milan, with a wage dispute with his current club threatening to push him towards the exit.

According to Tuttosport, Udinese paid approximately €5 million to permanently sign Zaniolo from Galatasaray, though the Turks retain 50% of any future resale fee.

The problem lies in wages, a gap of €600,000-700,000 per season separates the player’s demands from what Udinese are currently prepared to offer, with the club unwilling to renegotiate the existing €1.2 million net deal that expires in June 2029. It is a standoff that is rapidly opening the door to outside interest.

MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 11: Nicolo Zaniolo of Udinese Calcio is put under pressure by Davide Bartesaghi of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Udinese Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 11, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Juventus weigh Adzic swap as Fabregas eyes Zaniolo for Como’s Champions League debut

Juventus are sounding out Udinese, who are asking €15 million, and could include young talent Vasilije Adzic as part of any deal, a profile that appeals greatly to Udinese sporting director Nani.

For Juventus, Zaniolo represents a credible and affordable alternative to their primary trequartista target Brahim Diaz, for whom they are prepared to wait considerably longer given the Real Madrid situation.

Como’s Cesc Fabregas is equally keen, actively seeking talented Italian players at accessible prices ahead of the club’s debut Champions League campaign.

Milan’s interest is confirmed by agent Vigorelli’s recent visit to the club’s headquarters, though the Rossoneri’s lack of a confirmed sporting director makes their pursuit harder to structure at this stage.

Udinese, for their part, would ideally prefer to keep both Zaniolo and Keinan Davis as the foundation of their attack.