Juventus appear ready to make their first signing ahead of the 2026/27 season, with reports suggesting that Roma defender Zeki Çelik is close to joining the Bianconeri.
According to La Stampa (as quoted by Calciomercato), Juventus have reached an understanding with the player’s representatives as the Turkish right-back prepares to leave the Italian capital for Turin. With his current contract at Roma set to expire in June, Çelik is already free to negotiate with other clubs and sign a pre-contract agreement effective from 1 July — a situation Juventus seem eager to take advantage of.
The 29-year-old defender, who joined Roma from Lille in the summer of 2022, has reportedly failed to reach a renewal agreement with the Giallorossi hierarchy. Çelik is said to have requested a salary in the region of €3–4 million per season — a figure deemed too high by the club. As a result, a free transfer at the end of the campaign now looks the most likely outcome, with Juventus moving swiftly to secure his services.
At Roma, Çelik has enjoyed one of his best spells in recent years, becoming a mainstay in the team’s defensive setup. Used both as a wide defender and as a right-sided centre-back, he has made 31 appearances this season, scoring once and providing four assists. His consistent form has made him one of the most reliable figures in the Roma back line.
For Roma, Çelik’s potential departure could spark changes on the flanks, with Wesley expected to shift to the right and the left side likely requiring reinforcements, especially given Angeliño’s continuing recovery from injury.
