Zaniolo scored seven goals and seven assists in 34 appearances across all competitions for Udinese during the 2025–26 season, convincing the Bianconeri to trigger his permanent purchase. The transfer includes a 50% sell-on clause for Galatasaray.
Agent Claudio Vigorelli stated: "The contractual salary terms agreed for Nicolò in the event of a permanent transfer did not reflect his true value... Nicolò feels bitterly disappointed and frustrated by the circumstances." The wage disagreement stems from Zaniolo's rushed loan move last summer, which left salary negotiations unresolved.
Vigorelli added: "Together with Udinese, we decided to sign and complete the deal based on the understanding that, before the purchase option was exercised, we would sit down and negotiate new terms." Both parties remain open to renegotiating a revised package.
Zaniolo's wage dispute may distract from on-pitch performance and affect Udinese's Serie A competitiveness next season. Unresolved contract tensions could influence betting on Serie A outcomes if the situation escalates or leads to further transfer activity.