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Liverpool 'target' loved by Jose Mourinho turns down new contract - free transfer can be agreed …

Liverpool are among the clubs said to have shown an interest in Zeki Celik.

A defender linked with a move to Liverpool has reportedly turned down a new deal at his current club.

The Reds have reportedly been eyeing a move for Zeki Celik of AS Roma. Celik, a Turkey international, has made 31 appearances for the Italian side this season, scoring one goal and creating four in their push for Champions League qualification. The Stadio Olimpico outfit are fourth in Serie A.

Celik has primarily operated as a right-back, although he can play in central defence and further forward. The 28-year-old is into the final few months of his Roma deal, having joined in 2022 with his arrival overseen by Jose Mourinho, and they are keen to tie him down to an extension. According to TuttoSport (via Forza Roma), I Giallorossi have offered Celik a deal worth £2 million per year (after tax).

However, the former Lille man is said to have rebuffed the offer. Juventus and Inter Milan are said to be hovering, with Liverpool also said to be keen.

Will Liverpool sign Zeki Celik?

Right-back is not a position that Liverpool are short in terms of players under contract, with Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong the current recognised options.

But the position has proven problematic for the Reds throughout the campaign. Bradley and Frimpong have had injuries, with the pair currently sidelined with respective knee and groin issues. The former will not play again this season.

Meanwhile, Joe Gomez - capable of operating on the right-hand side of defence - has had his own fitness problems over the past few years. In addition, there is still some debate as to whether Frimpong is a right-back or is more effective playing in an advanced wide role.

FIFA rules mean that Liverpool could agree a pre-contract agreement with Celik if they wished to pursue a deal.

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