The transfer market rivalry between Juventus and Roma has intensified dramatically after the Bianconeri pulled off a stunning free-agent signing. Now, the Old Lady are targeting another Giallorossi stalwart, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Roma are ready to retaliate with a move for a Juventus midfielder.
Celik’s Shock Switch
Juventus caused an earthquake in the Italian capital by securing Zeki Celik on a free transfer. The Turkish right-back’s contract with Roma had expired on June 30, and he was widely expected to sign a new deal at the Stadio Olimpico. In fact, the contract was reportedly printed and ready to be signed when Celik abruptly decided to join Juventus instead. The move blindsided Roma and instantly added a layer of bad blood to the clubs’ dealings.
Pellegrini in the Crosshairs
According to reports from Football Italia, Juventus are not done. They have turned their attention to Roma captain Lorenzo Pellegrini, who is also out of contract. Pellegrini’s deal expired at the end of the season, and while negotiations for a renewal are ongoing, Juventus are ready to lure the midfielder to Turin. The Italian international would add creativity and leadership to Thiago Motta’s squad, all without a transfer fee—a strategy Juve are exploiting ruthlessly.
Roma’s Countermove
Roma are not taking the aggression lightly. Sport Mediaset claim the Giallorossi are prepared to respond by targeting Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram. The Frenchman has impressed since joining from Nice, and Roma would only move if they cash in on Manu Koné. The French midfielder is in talks with Manchester United over a potential €60 million transfer, which could fund the Thuram operation. Such a tit-for-tat exchange would be a blockbuster subplot in a summer already dominated by free-agent coups.
What This Means for the Serie A Balance
The back-and-forth between Juventus and Roma is reshaping both squads. Juve are aggressively stockpiling experience and quality without transfer fees, while Roma risk losing their symbols but could reinvest heavily. If Pellegrini departs, it would be a devastating blow for Roma fans, but the arrival of Thuram—who has Champions League pedigree—could soften it. Meanwhile, Juventus would add a midfielder of Pellegrini’s caliber for free, further strengthening a squad already revamped under Motta. With the Serie A season approaching, the early off-pitch battles are already defining the summer.
Quick Facts:
Zeki Celik: Signed for Juventus as a free agent after Roma contract expired June 30.
Lorenzo Pellegrini: Free agent captain, negotiating renewal but Juventus interest emerging.
Khephren Thuram: Roma target; move contingent on Manu Koné sale to Manchester United for around €60m.