Oumar Solet could remain at Udinese amid transfer interest

Oumar Solet is increasingly likely to stay at Udinese despite interest from several leading European clubs, with the Italian side now reluctant to lose a defender who became an important part of their team last season.

The French-Ivorian centre-back attracted attention after a successful campaign in Serie A. Inter, Napoli, Juventus, Como and Atletico de Madrid have all been linked with the former Olympique Lyonnais player, while discussions with Inter had appeared to be progressing.

However, Udinese’s position is understood to have changed. According to Italian newspaper Messaggero Veneto, the possible departure of Thomas Kristensen to Atalanta has made the club less willing to negotiate over Solet.

Udinese manager Kosta Runjaic is keen to avoid major changes to his defence before the new season and views Solet as a key player in his plans. The defender established himself as a regular starter under Runjaic and is now considered one of the main pillars of the side’s back line.

Solet’s current contract runs until June 2027 and includes an option for a further year. Udinese could also offer him an improved deal, including a salary increase, in an attempt to reward his performances and strengthen their position.

The player’s estimated market value is currently €23m, according to Transfermarkt. That valuation, combined with the volume of interest in him, had led to expectations that Solet might leave Italy during the transfer window.

Instead, he could remain with Udinese and continue his development in Serie A. Keeping him would provide Runjaic with greater defensive continuity and allow the club to begin the new campaign without having to rebuild a crucial area of the team.

Solet’s potential decision to stay would also represent a change in direction from the earlier indications surrounding a move to Inter. While the clubs had appeared to be making progress in discussions, Udinese’s likely need to replace Kristensen has increased the importance of retaining defensive experience.

Udinese will soon begin their Coppa Italia campaign with a first-round match against Padova. The fixture will provide an early competitive test for Runjaic’s squad as preparations for the new season continue.

The betting company 1xBet lists Udinese as the clear favourite for the match, with the club priced at 1.37 to win. A draw is quoted at 4.90, while Padova are priced at 7.90. The source article also includes a promotional reference directing readers to a 1xBet download option.

For now, Solet appears set to remain in Friuli, where Udinese hope he can continue to play a central role in their defence after attracting interest from some of Italy and Europe’s better-known clubs.