Softfootball can confirm Juventus have hijacked AS Roma’s plans to keep Zeki Çelik, reaching an agreement in principle with the Turkish right-back over a free transfer.
Despite Roma holding a verbal pact to extend the defender’s stay, the Bianconeri moved decisively to secure the 28-year-old, who was in Turin yesterday to finalise the framework of the deal.
The move is expected to see Çelik join Juventus on a free transfer, marking another important piece of business as the club continues its summer rebuild.
Juventus remain interested in strengthening other key areas of the squad. The Serie A giants have confirmed their interest in Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, with the Argentina international emerging as the club’s primary target between the posts.
However, any move for Martínez is expected to depend on negotiations with Aston Villa, who are understood to value the World Cup-winning goalkeeper highly.
