Juventus have completed the signing of Zeki Celik from Roma, according to reports in Italy. The move comes despite previous criticism of the player from Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini, who reportedly considered Celik too slow. Juventus’s newly appointed sporting director, Ricky Massara, is believed to have orchestrated the deal, viewing Celik as a valuable addition to the squad and a key component in a broader rebuilding effort.
Massara and Gasperini have a history of disagreements, including previous transfer disputes over players such as Sancho, Raspadori, and Zirkzee, and a heated exchange in the Lecce dressing room. However, Massara has consistently maintained a professional demeanor, even during a challenging second spell at Roma, and now focuses on strengthening Juventus. The transfer of Celik is seen as a strategic move, potentially hindering a direct competitor for Champions League qualification.
Juventus are not stopping with Celik, and are also reportedly attempting to sign Lorenzo Pellegrini from Roma. Pellegrini is currently weighing his options, with his contract renewal with Roma continually delayed. Juventus are increasing their pressure, though optimism within the club remains cautious. Pellegrini is considering the move based on lifestyle factors as much as footballing ones.
Roma are attempting to retain Pellegrini, offering a two-year contract extension with potential bonuses that could bring the total value to €4 million net. Juventus are prepared to offer a competitive proposal, but are willing to allow Pellegrini the weekend to make a decision before proceeding with medical examinations and a formal contract signing. Massara’s track record includes successful, low-profile acquisitions like Simon Kjaer at Milan and Federico Fazio at Roma, and he appears to be employing a similar strategy at Juventus. The speed with which Massara operates, previously criticized by Gasperini, proved decisive in securing Celik.
