By: Marco De Marinis
What once appeared unlikely is now very much back on the table: Zeki Çelik could remain at AS Roma beyond this season.
In recent weeks, discussions over the Turkish full-back’s renewal have regained momentum, largely due to the influence of Gian Piero Gasperini, who reportedly values Celik highly and wants him in the squad next season. Gasperini is said to appreciate the defender’s professionalism, intensity in training, and reliability, considering him more than just a rotational player.
Initial negotiations had stalled after Celik’s representatives reportedly requested a net salary of €4 million per season — a figure Roma immediately deemed too expensive as the club continues efforts to reduce and better manage its wage bill.
However, a compromise now appears possible. Roma could be willing to increase Celik’s current €2.5 million salary to around €3 million, potentially slightly higher, especially since the player can still benefit from Italy’s growth decree tax advantages, lowering the club’s gross financial burden.
Meanwhile, Juventus FC continue to monitor the situation closely and have reportedly added Celik to their list of potential free-transfer targets.
The defender now faces an important final stretch of the season before deciding his future: remain at the Olimpico or strengthen one of Roma’s direct rivals. Once considered behind Rick Karsdorp and Rasmus Kristensen in the pecking order, Celik has steadily developed into a dependable and defensively improved option, with Gasperini’s backing potentially proving decisive in the negotiations.
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