In a stunning turn of events in the Serie A transfer market, Juventus has successfully hijacked Roma's contract renewal negotiations to secure the signature of Turkish defender Zeki Celik. The 1997-born fullback appeared destined to extend his stay in the Italian capital, but a swift intervention by Juventus directors Frederic Massara and Giovanni Carnevali completely altered the trajectory of the deal. Celik has officially put pen to paper on a long-term contract that binds him to the Bianconeri until June 30, 2029.
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Subscribe Sekarang →According to reports from Tuttosport, this tactical market blitz provides manager Luciano Spalletti with a crucial defensive reinforcement, while simultaneously drawing an angry response from AS Roma figures. Gian Piero Gasperini also weighed in on the sudden departure, noting that the player was nearing the end of his contract and asserting that Roma would reinforce their squad to become even stronger without him. Meanwhile, the newly signed defender has already expressed his immense pride in joining the Turin giants during his first official media appearance.
"First of all, I am truly happy to be here. I am really excited about how the negotiations went," Zeki Celik stated during his introductory interview with the club's official channels. "I will try to play to give my contribution to the club and to offer the performances that our fans expect from us. Those who know me know that they will see a Zeki who is always ready to commit to the maximum, to play with passion, and to give everything for my teammates and the team."
Based on editorial team observations from the pre-season training camp, Celik has already broken the ice with several squad members before the team departed for a friendly match against Basel in Switzerland. The integration process has been further aided by his international compatriot, Kenan Yildiz. Celik revealed that the young Juventus number 10 reached out immediately, sending a welcoming voice message expressing his joy and optimism for their shared future at the club, with Celik hailing Yildiz as "a great person with an extraordinary personality who represents the future of Juventus."
From editorial monitoring of the club's tactical setups, Celik is expected to play a vital role in Luciano Spalletti's defensive system. The Turkish international spoke highly of his new manager, confirming they have already discussed tactical expectations on the pitch. "He is definitely a great and successful coach in Italy," Celik remarked, adding that his teammates have consistently praised Spalletti as an exceptional professional who elevates his players. The defender concluded his remarks with a direct message to the Bianconeri faithful, simply stating, "I am happy to be here, Forza Juve."