AS Roma have rejected Fulham’s offer for Turkish full-back Zeki Celik, as Marco Silva may have to find an alternative before the window shuts.
According to Fabzirio Romano, AS Roma have decided on Zeki Celik and rejected an offer from Fulham. Marco Silva was keen to recruit a new right-back following Kenny Tete’s injury, and he might have to pivot towards an alternative before the transfer window shuts.
Fulham have been consistently in form in the Premier League, beating Newcastle United away from home. However, some recruitment decisions are needed for the squad, as Marco Silva clearly wants a new right-back.
Kenny Tete has been the preferred choice in the right-back role for most of the season, but his injury has caused concerns. While Fulham do have Timothy Castagne as a backup, and the Belgian is starting in Tete’s absence, they might have waited far too long in the hope that their first choice would make progress with his fitness.
As things stand, Tete is expected to be out until early April, which will be a big blow for Fulham in their quest to make it onto one of the European places. Hence, Silva has been looking for a new right back in the last few days with options like AC Milan’s Emerson Royal mentioned. The Brazilian is still a possibility, given he is no longer the first-choice right-back for the Rossoneri, as new arrival Kyle Walker will assume that role.
Fulham are also interested in Zeki Celik from AS Roma. The Turkish international is seen as a market opportunity as he has less than 18 months left on his deal. The Serie A outfit could get the best transfer value in this window compared to next summer, so there have been some discussions between the clubs.
AS Roma reject Fulham’s Zeki Celik bid
As per Fabrizio Romano, Roma have rejected Fulham’s bid for Celik. The Serie A giants are leaning towards keeping the full-back. The Turkish international’s game time has reduced in recent weeks, although the Giallorossi do not want to lose a quality defender at this stage of the widow.
Hence, Fulham might have to look for an alternative to add to their squad in the final hours of deadline day. The position is key, as Silva would want an alternative to the injured Tete, as Castagne cannot be seen playing all the games and would need competition.
