Celik ready to become free agent after Roma talks stall | OneFootball

Reports suggest Zeki Celik is unlikely to agree a new contract with Roma, making him an appetising free agent for Juventus, Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City.

The Turkish international can play as a right-back or a wing-back in a more advanced role, and has been known to work in central defence when required too.

His current deal with Roma only runs to June 30 and negotiations over an extension have hit significant problems.

Celik demands a long way off Roma bid

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)

According to Tuttomercatoweb, the most recent proposal from the club is worth just €2.4m per season, a long way off his agent’s demand of a €4m salary.

With such a big gap between the two parties and time running out, Celik is far more likely to become a free agent in the summer.

This is one of the situations leading to friction behind the scenes between coach Gian Piero Gasperini and the club directors, as he wants Celik to be confirmed in his squad.

Juventus remain the favourites to snap the player up, but Premier League sides have also been heavily linked, including Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, Fulham and Manchester United.

Celik turned 29 last month and joined Roma from LOSC in the summer of 2022 for €7.4m.

He made 37 competitive appearances for the club so far this season, contributing one goal and four assists.