Roma forced to rethink transfer plans after Juventus hijack Celik move
Quick summary
Juventus have signed Zeki Celik, a transfer target Roma had been pursuing, forcing the Giallorossi to reassess their summer transfer strategy.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceRoma are expected to step up their search for wide players after Juventus swooped in to sign Zeki Celik, forcing the Giallorossi to reassess their transfer strategy ahead of the new Serie A season.
The Turkish defender had been expected to remain at the club, with reports suggesting Roma were close to reaching a final agreement before Juventus completed a surprise move in a matter of hours.
His departure leaves Gian Piero Gasperini short of options on the flanks and increases the urgency for sporting director Tony D’Amico to strengthen the squad before the start of the campaign.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MARCH 12: Zeki Celik of AS Roma is challenged by Remo Freuler of Bologna during the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on March 12, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images) Moreira remains the priority but Roma consider further reinforcements Strasbourg wing-back Diego Moreira remains Roma’s leading target, as per TuttoMercatoWeb , and negotiations are understood to be ongoing, although the clubs are still working to bridge the gap in their valuations. The Portuguese youngster has already reached a personal agreement in principle, but the deal has yet to be finalised.
Roma are also evaluating alternative solutions, with Sky, as per AreaNapoli claiming Fiorentina’s Dodo and Atletico Madrid full-back Nahuel Molina among the names linked with the club following Celik’s exit. Molina, however, is reportedly focused on Argentina’s World Cup final before considering his future.
The Giallorossi also continue to monitor Ajax winger Mika Godts as they pursue attacking reinforcements, though that move remains separate from their search for defensive width. Gasperini is eager to add depth before the transfer window enters its decisive phase.
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What happened
Roma had identified Zeki Celik as a key target, likely as a reinforcement at right-back, but Juventus moved quickly to hijack the deal and secure the Turkish international's signature. The loss of a priority target leaves Roma needing to pivot in the transfer market, exploring alternative options for the same position. The Celik move highlights Juventus's aggressive early-window activity and complicates Roma's squad-building plans ahead of the new Serie A season.
Chance analysis
Losing a priority target to a direct Serie A rival is a tangible setback for Roma, both in terms of squad planning and market leverage. Roma now face higher prices and fewer options at right-back, potentially forcing them to either overpay for alternatives or adjust their tactical approach. Juventus, meanwhile, gain depth and quality, strengthening their squad in a position where rotation is important across domestic and European competition.
Roma lose a priority transfer target and must pivot their recruitment strategy, while Juventus strengthen their defensive options with a proven Serie A right-back.
Roma's right-back depth and incoming transfer targets should be monitored closely, as they may now pursue a different profile or overpay for alternatives.