Official: Udinese sign Lautaro, Calcio Mercato confirms

Defender Lautaro Giannetti has officially joined Italian Serie A side Udinese. Giannetti joins the club on a free transfer after leaving Velez Sarsfield, his contract with the Argentine club having expired on December 31.

A statement released by Udinese reveals, “The reinforcement for the Bianconeri defence comes from Argentina: Lautaro Giannetti is a new player of Udinese. Giannetti has signed a contract that ties him to the club until June 30, 2026.”

Born in San Nicòlas, Argentina, Giannetti began his youth career at Velez Sarsfield before making his debut for the senior team in the Argentina’s 2012 Copa Argentina against Rosario Central. Considered an experienced and solid player, his versatility allows him to play any role in a three-man defence. The Argentine centre-back also brings with him a wealth of international experience.

The same statement highlighted his progression from playing for Argentina’s Under-20 team in 2013 to becoming a constant feature in Velez’s first team from 2015 onward, stating “From that moment forward, he has been a steady presence in the first team of Velez where, starting from 2015, he became a key fixture. He played 15 matches in the league in 2015, 14 (scoring one goal) in 2016.”

His performances led to him being selected for Argentina’s squad at the Rio Olympics, playing every match from the start. Over the years, Giannetti established himself as the captain of Velez and a true emblem of the club. He made over 200 appearances and scored three goals in more than 10 years at Velez.

The statement concluded with optimism, “Now it’s time for Giannetti to dive into the Bianconeri adventure, bringing all his experience and quality.”