Liverpool are expected to be in the market for a defender in the summer transfer window, with Roma's Zeki Celik among the names linked with a move to at Anfield
Zeki Celik
Zeki Celik is being eyed by Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)
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Liverpool’s hopes of landing Roma star Zeki Celik have been boosted after his agent poured cold water on a move to Juventus. The Turkish international is out of contract at the end of the season and has been touted for a move elsewhere.
Roma’s Serie A rivals, Juventus, have been linked, while Premier League duo Liverpool and Manchester City have also been credited with an interest. It appeared that the Italian side had stolen a march, though, with reports suggesting that Celik had reached an agreement to join the Turin giants.
That does not appear to be the case, however, with his agent, Fazil Ozdemir, disputing that fact. He said: “The rumours that Zeki has reached an agreement with a club are not accurate.
“He currently plays for a major club, and it is natural that major teams in Italy and England would show interest in a player competing at this level and that his name would be associated with those clubs.
“His contract with Roma expires at the end of the season; however, he has great respect for the club. At this stage, he is not focusing on contractual or transfer matters. His full attention and commitment are focused on supporting Roma in achieving its objectives.
“We believe that all other matters will be addressed and resolved in due course, in a professional and respectful manner.”
Celik, 29, has been with Roma since a switch from French side Lille in 2022. He has gone on to make 137 appearances in all competitions and helped the side to the Europa League final during his debut campaign.
Liverpool could certainly do with another centre-back through the door heading into next season. Ibrahima Konate remains out of contract at the end of the campaign and there remains little sign of an extension.
Ibrahima Konate
Konate is out of contract at the end of the season(Image: Getty Images)
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Speaking about the current situation, Liverpool boss Arne Slot said earlier this month: "We are in talks with him so that tells you what we want. It's clear we would like him to stay but negotiations are ongoing so let's see where that ends.
"We wouldn't be in negotiations if we didn't want him to stay. It's just as good from Ibou as from Virgil (to stay fit), I'm sure there is a difference in age and that sometimes plays a part as well. Ibou has had a very good spell recently.
"He had a lot of good games earlier in the season but then he was also part of the reason why we conceded a goal. His general performances were good but then a small mistake he made immediately led to a goal and so he was judged differently.
"But he has had a very good partnership with Virgil since I've been here and, just like Virgil, he has always been fit. Touch wood. These two are vital for us, not only because of the quality they have but because of the lack of options we have behind."