Roma step up Summerville pursuit through trusted intermediary

Zeki Çelik has completed a transfer to Juventus on a contract until 30 June 2029, with accessory costs of one million euros, ending a period in which Roma was preparing to formalize his renewal. The Turkish defender underwent medical examinations with Juventus in secret while renewal discussions with Roma were described as nearly complete; Roma had even arranged a flight for him to travel to the capital and join squad training the following day. Juventus announced the signing on their official website yesterday evening. Çelik posted a farewell message on social media thanking the Roma family and listing those who shaped his time at the club. He specifically acknowledged José Mourinho for giving him the opportunity to wear the shirt, as well as Daniele De Rossi, Ivan Jurić, and Claudio Ranieri. He also extended particular gratitude to Gian Piero Gasperini, writing: "Even though we worked together for a short time, the trust, sincerity and respect you showed me meant so much. I will always be grateful to you. Now it's time to start a new chapter of my career. But I will always carry this club, this city and all of you in my heart." The move carries an ironic undertone: weeks earlier, when Roma's then-director Massara was still at the club, he was reportedly unconvinced about renewing Çelik's contract despite Gasperini's request. Massara has since joined Juventus, where photos have now circulated of him posing with Çelik in the Juventus shirt.

Roma are pursuing Jaden Philogene-Bidace from Ipswich as a potential attacking addition during the summer transfer window. The 2002-born English winger has drawn strong interest from the Giallorossi, though competition for his signature remains fierce. Benfica and Bologna are also tracking the player, with the Portuguese club reportedly ahead in the race at present. Philogene-Bidace emerged as an alternative to primary target Summerville, the Dutch forward. The club's director of sport is exploring multiple options to strengthen the attack. Ipswich value the winger at approximately €20 million. His arrival could represent a more economical solution compared to Summerville as Roma look to close their first signing of the summer. Philogene-Bidace's form last season underscored his potential. He scored 13 goals in 36 matches for Ipswich, a tally that contributed significantly to the club's promotion to the Premier League after just one year in the second tier. Roma remain in contention to land the player, though Benfica's current positioning suggests the deal remains far from certain.

Juventus have secured Zeki Çelik on a free transfer, capitalising on a breakdown in contract talks between the Turkish defender and Roma. Çelik became available on 30 June after his contract with Roma expired, and while renewal negotiations appeared close, Juventus moved swiftly to conclude a deal. Giovanni Carnevali and former Roma sporting director Ricky Massara orchestrated the move, offering Çelik a three-year contract worth €3 million per season. Çelik completed medical tests and signed in the evening, departing without a transfer fee. Roma's failure to agree terms on a contract extension represents a significant setback in the transfer market. The club had appeared confident of retaining the 28-year-old, who provides tactical flexibility across multiple defensive positions. Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti values Çelik's defensive versatility highly: the right-back can operate as a natural fullback in a four-man defence, as a wide midfielder across the pitch, or as a right-sided centre-back in a three-man setup. Juventus gain an experienced international defender with proven reliability without paying a transfer fee.