Newcastle handed boost in race to sign Roma defender Zeki Celik as contract talks stall | OneFootball

Newcastle United have been handed a massive boost in their bid to sign AS Roma right back Zeki Celik.

According to Italian news outlet Corriere dello Sport (via VoceGiallorossa), contract talks between the Turkish defender and the club have stalled, paving the way for Newcastle to swoop in.

The Magpies are already planning their recruitment strategy ahead of the summer transfer window, and bringing in a right back is on their to-do list.

Newcastle have Kieran Trippier and Valentino Livramento as right-back options at the moment.

However, Trippier’s contract runs out in the summer, and there haven’t been any talks of an extension, which suggests that he could leave the club at the end of the season.

While Livramento still has two years left on his contract, his recurring injury woes have been a major source of concern for the club.

The 23-year-old struggled with a knee injury earlier in the season before suffering yet another hamstring setback in the FA Cup third round victory over Bournemouth.

Livramento is attracting interest from Arsenal and Manchester City, so Newcastle could struggle to keep him.

Celik has emerged as a potential bargain addition to the squad. He has been a mainstay in Roma’s backline under Gian Piero Gasperini this season.

Celik, who won Ligue 1 with Lille before joining Roma, has missed just three Serie A games.

The Turkish defender has started in 21 of his 23 league appearances for the Giallorossi, and is still considered part of their long-term plans.

However, talks over a new deal have stalled, with Roma struggling to meet his wage demands. Celik’s representatives are asking for a net salary of €4 million per season to extend his stay in Rome.

However, Roma are only offering to increase his wages from €2m to €2.5m per year.

Newcastle are monitoring the player’s situation closely and will be ready to pounce at the earliest opportunity.

They will have to fend off interest from Fulham, Juventus and VfB Stuttgart.