Juventus have pulled off one of the biggest transfer surprises of the summer by hijacking AS Roma’s agreement with Zeki Çelik and signing the Turkish international on a free transfer.
The experienced right-back had been expected to remain in Rome after reaching a verbal agreement over a new contract. However, in a dramatic twist that unfolded in less than 24 hours, Juventus quietly stepped in, convinced the defender to change course, completed a secret medical in Turin, and secured his signature on a three-year deal.
The move has left Roma stunned and handed Juventus an experienced Serie A defender without paying a transfer fee.
How Juventus Hijacked Roma’s Deal
For weeks, Roma believed they had done enough to keep Çelik.
Reports earlier in July suggested the club had reached an agreement on fresh contract terms, with only the official announcement remaining. Juventus, however, continued working discreetly behind the scenes.
According to multiple reports, the Bianconeri accelerated negotiations after identifying the Turkish defender as an ideal opportunity in the free-agent market.
Within hours:
- Juventus contacted the player’s representatives.
- Çelik travelled to Turin.
- A medical was completed in secret.
- Personal terms were agreed.
- A three-year contract was signed.
It was one of the fastest transfer turnarounds of the window and a major setback for Roma.
Why Juventus Wanted Zeki Çelik
Although this signing may not carry the glamour of a marquee transfer, Juventus believe Çelik solves several important squad issues.
Experience in Serie A
Having spent four seasons with Roma, Çelik already understands the tactical demands of Italian football.
There is virtually no adaptation period required.
Defensive Versatility
One of Çelik’s biggest strengths is flexibility.
He can operate as:
- Right-back
- Right wing-back
- Right-sided centre-back in a back three
That versatility gives Juventus valuable tactical options throughout a demanding season.
Reliability
The Turkish international has built a reputation as one of Serie A’s most dependable defenders.
He rarely misses matches through injury and has consistently delivered solid performances, making him a dependable squad option.
Zeki Çelik’s Career So Far
Çelik’s journey to Juventus has been built on consistency.
After beginning his career in Turkey with Bursaspor and Istanbulspor, he earned a move to Lille in France, where he became one of Ligue 1’s best right-backs.
His achievements include:
- Ligue 1 champion with Lille (2020/21)
- Four successful seasons in France
- Transfer to AS Roma in 2022
- Over 150 appearances for Roma in all competitions
- More than 60 international caps for Turkey, including captaining the national team on occasion.
His experience at both domestic and international level made him an attractive target for Juventus.
Why Roma Are Disappointed
Roma believed the renewal was effectively complete.
The club had negotiated improved terms and expected only a formal announcement before Juventus intervened.
Losing Çelik creates several challenges:
- Reduced defensive depth.
- Need to sign a replacement.
- Strengthening a direct Serie A rival.
Roma have reportedly turned their attention to Atlético Madrid full-back Nahuel Molina as they look to fill the gap left by Çelik’s departure.
What Çelik Brings to Juventus
While not regarded as a superstar signing, Çelik offers qualities every successful team needs.
Tactical Discipline
He is comfortable defending deep and maintaining positional structure.
European Experience
Years in Ligue 1, Serie A and European competitions have made him a composed defender in high-pressure matches.
Winning Mentality
From Lille’s historic Ligue 1 title to regular European football with Roma, Çelik understands what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Is This Smart Business by Juventus?
Absolutely.
Rather than spending significant money on a backup defender, Juventus have signed:
- An experienced international.
- A proven Serie A performer.
- A versatile defender.
- A free agent.
The club only incurs wages and relatively modest associated costs, making the deal one of the most cost-effective moves of the transfer window.
Fan Reactions
The transfer has generated mixed reactions.
Juventus supporters have largely praised the club for acting decisively in the market and adding experienced depth at no transfer fee.
Roma fans, meanwhile, have expressed frustration at seeing a player they expected to retain leave for a domestic rival at the last moment. Online discussions reflect both disappointment from Roma supporters and cautious optimism among Juventus fans about the value of the signing.
Final Verdict: Rating the Signing
Considering the circumstances, this looks like excellent business for Juventus.
They have strengthened their squad without paying a transfer fee while weakening a direct Serie A rival.
Çelik may not be the headline-grabbing signing of the summer, but his experience, versatility and reliability make him a valuable addition.
Rating: 8.5/10
It is not a blockbuster Galáctico-style transfer, but it is exactly the type of intelligent, low-risk move that can strengthen a squad competing for Serie A and European honours.
