Juventus have completed the unexpected signing of right-back Zeki Celik on a free transfer, following his inability to agree on a new contract with rivals Roma. The move comes as a surprise, given that the Giallorossi had been optimistic about retaining the 29-year-old, who made real contributions during his tenure at the club.
Celik joined Roma from Lille in 2022 and made 151 appearances across all competitions, helping the club secure a return to the Champions League with a third-place finish in the Serie A during the 2025-26 season. With Celik’s departure, he now represents one of the sides Roma outperformed in the league standings last season, as Juventus finished sixth.
Zeki Celik’s Impact at Roma
During his time at Roma, Zeki Celik was more than just a reliable defender; he scored two goals and provided ten assists, showcasing his attacking capabilities from the full-back position. His efforts were instrumental in strengthening Roma’s defensive line while contributing to their offensive play, particularly during their Champions League campaign. Celik’s experience and versatility will likely become an asset for Juventus as they aim to improve their standing in the Italian league and compete on the European front.
Juventus’ Transfer Activity This Summer
The acquisition of Celik marks Juventus’ fourth signing ahead of the 2026-27 season. The club has also made permanent the loan signings of Lois Openda and Jeremie Boga while securing forward Jeff Ekhator from Genoa for €16m. With notable departures, including Dusan Vlahovic and Timothy Weah, the club appears to be reshaping its squad ahead of upcoming competitions.
The Reaction from Roma
Roma fans may view Celik’s departure as a real setback, especially as they had anticipated his continuing role within the squad. Despite their confidence in securing a new contract with the player, losing him to a direct rival like Juventus adds an extra layer of difficulty for the Giallorossi as they prepare for the new season.
The SportiveNews view
Celik’s move to Juventus could signal a pivotal shift for both clubs as they gear up for the upcoming season. This transfer not only strengthens Juventus defensively but also highlights the ongoing tactical shifts within Serie A. For Roma, addressing gaps left by Celik’s exit will be crucial as they strive to maintain competitiveness, especially with Champions League aspirations at stake.
Frequently asked questions
What are the terms of Celik’s contract with Juventus?
Zeki Celik has signed a three-year deal with Juventus, indicating the club’s commitment to integrating him into their plans for the coming seasons.
How did Celik perform during his time at Roma?
During his stay at Roma, Celik made 151 appearances, contributing two goals and ten assists, indicating his effective presence on the pitch across various competitions.
Source: Based on reporting from Soccernews. SportiveNews rewrote and analysed the story independently for football readers.
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