Zeki Çelik could become one of the most sought-after free agents this summer,
with Manchester United preparing to rival Juventus for the Turkish international’s signature.
Contract situation opens the door
The 29-year-old right-back is currently at AS Roma, but his contract is set to expire at the end of the season.
Negotiations over a renewal have stalled due to a significant gap in salary expectations—Çelik is reportedly asking for around €4 million per year,
while Roma’s offer is closer to €2.4 million.
With no agreement in sight, the defender is increasingly likely to leave on a free transfer,
making him an attractive low-risk option for top clubs across Europe.
Growing competition for his signature
While Juventus have long been considered frontrunners, they are no longer alone.
Manchester United are now among several Premier League giants monitoring the situation, alongside clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City.
This sets up a potential transfer battle between elite clubs, all eager to capitalize on a rare opportunity to sign an experienced international defender without paying a transfer fee.
Why Man United are interested
United’s recruitment strategy this summer is expected to focus on strengthening multiple areas
of the squad. While midfield and attacking reinforcements are priorities, opportunistic deals—like signing Çelik—are also being explored.
Çelik offers:
Versatility – can play right-back, wing-back, or even in a back three
Experience – a regular for both club and the Turkish national team
Depth and competition – a strong alternative to Diogo Dalot
His arrival would provide valuable squad depth while maintaining financial flexibility.
Juventus still in pole position?
Despite United’s interest, Juventus remain strongly linked and may still have an edge,
having tracked the player for some time and reportedly positioned themselves early in negotiations.
However, the appeal of the Premier League—and Manchester United’s global pull—could yet sway the final decision.
Bottom line
Zeki Çelik’s contract standoff with Roma has turned him into one of the most intriguing free agents on the market.
With both Manchester United and Juventus circling, his next move could become a key subplot of the summer transfer window.
