According to Radio Kiss Kiss, Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna has begun discussions with Zaniolo's representatives. Manna is understood to have long admired the player, having previously targeted him during his time at Juventus. Antonio Conte is also reported to be a strong advocate of bringing him to Naples, though the extent of Napoli's pursuit will depend on whether Conte remains in charge next season — a question that remains unresolved following recent public comments from club president Aurelio De Laurentiis.
Zaniolo, 26, joined Galatasaray from Roma in February 2023 but never established himself in Turkey. He has spent the time since on loan, arriving at Udinese last summer. The move has proved transformational. He has six goals and seven assists in 34 appearances this season, making him one of only three Italian players in Serie A this campaign with at least five goals and five assists.
Udinese hold a purchase option of approximately €9 million and are expected to trigger it, making Zaniolo their player permanently before any further sale. Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Milan, Inter, Juventus and Napoli are all monitoring the situation, and that Udinese's main concern over keeping him is the weight of his wage demands on their budget.
Milan's interest is the most developed. Massimiliano Allegri attempted to sign Zaniolo during his time at Juventus and is understood to view him as a tactical option capable of boosting an attack that has struggled for consistency. The club's plan involves waiting for Udinese to complete the purchase before making a formal approach.
Zaniolo is contracted to Galatasaray until the summer of 2027. He has earned 19 international caps for Italy, scoring twice.