Zeki Celik is set to complete a surprise move to Juventus after undergoing medical examinations at the club’s J Medical facility on Thursday. The Turkey international will join the Bianconeri on a free transfer, with official confirmation of the three-year deal expected within hours once final contractual details are settled.
The transfer marks a dramatic twist in the defender’s future after Roma believed they had secured his renewal. According to reports, the Giallorossi had reached an agreement with Celik earlier this month on terms worth approximately €3 million per season, with the deal seemingly ready for announcement.
Juventus Move Swiftly
However, Juventus sporting director Frederic Massara conducted a rapid operation to hijack the move, described by sources as a “blitz with the headlights off.” Crucially, Celik’s contract with Roma expired on 30 June, leaving him free to negotiate with any club despite the capital side’s advanced talks.
This status allowed Juventus to intervene without paying a transfer fee. The speed of the Bianconeri’s approach left Roma powerless to prevent the departure, even though officials in the capital had considered the renewal a formality.
Deal Details
The 27-year-old has agreed to a three-year contract with Juventus, with his agents currently finalising the last formalities ahead of the official unveiling. The move strengthens the Turin club’s defensive options ahead of the forthcoming Serie A campaign.
For Roma, the loss represents a significant setback after weeks of negotiations aimed at retaining the Turkey international. The club must now look elsewhere to fill the defensive vacancy created by Celik’s unexpected exit to their Serie A rivals.