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Roma plot Revenge for Çelik, move for Juve’ top target

Published

4 weeks ago

July 19, 2026

Juventus may have won the race to sign Celik on a free transfer, and they could yet land Lorenzo Pellegrini under similar circumstances, but Roma are reportedly preparing a response of their own.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Giallorossi are ready to challenge the Bianconeri for the signing of Franck Kessié in what could become one of the most intriguing transfer battles of the summer.

Roma Ready to Enter the Race

Kessié, who became a free agent after the end of his spell with Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, remains one of Juventus’ priority midfield targets.

The Turin giants appreciate the Ivorian international’s experience, physicality, and leadership, believing he could add quality and balance to Luciano Spalletti’s midfield.

However, negotiations have yet to reach a breakthrough. The former Atalanta and AC Milan midfielder is reportedly asking for a salary between €5 million and €6 million per season, a figure Juventus currently consider too high.

While the club remain interested, they are unwilling to exceed their wage structure, leaving the door open for rival clubs to make their move.

Kessié Could Become Roma’s Statement Signing

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to act if they generate funds through the sale of Manu Koné.

Should the French midfielder leave in the coming weeks, the capital club would immediately intensify their pursuit of Kessié, hoping to convince him with an ambitious sporting project.

For Roma, signing the 1996-born midfielder would not only strengthen their squad but also represent a symbolic victory over Juventus after losing out on Celik and potentially Pellegrini.

The move would allow the Giallorossi to strike back in the transfer market and deny one of their direct rivals a player they have been targeting for several weeks.

With Kessié still available on a free transfer and no agreement yet reached with Juventus, the coming days could prove decisive.

The experienced Ivory Coast international now finds himself at the center of a growing tug-of-war, with both Italian giants eager to secure one of the most attractive free agents on the market.