Roma Secure Core Trio: Celik, Mancini, and Cristante Sign New Deals

FolioPitch.com – 15 July 2026 | AS Roma have made significant strides in securing their squad’s future, as reports confirm that Roma reach agreement for new Celik Mancini and Cristante contracts. The trio, all of whom were approaching free agency, have agreed to extensions that will keep them at the Stadio Olimpico for several more seasons. This follows the recent renewal of Paulo Dybala, signaling the club’s determination to retain its Champions League-qualifying core.

The Roma reach agreement for new Celik Mancini and Cristante contracts after weeks of negotiations. Turkish full-back Zeki Celik, who became a free agent on July 1, has reportedly signed a new contract. The details of his deal have not been disclosed, but it is understood to be a multi-year agreement. Meanwhile, defender Gianluca Mancini has agreed to terms until June 2029, and midfielder Bryan Cristante has extended his stay until June 2028. Both players have been instrumental in Roma’s recent success, with Mancini often marshaling the backline and Cristante providing crucial midfield stability.

According to reports from SportMediaset and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Roma reach agreement for new Celik Mancini and Cristante contracts is part of a broader strategy to lock down key players. The club is also in advanced talks with captain Lorenzo Pellegrini, who is currently a free agent as of July 1. Pellegrini’s renewal would complete the picture, ensuring that Roma’s core remains intact as they prepare for the upcoming Serie A campaign and Champions League football.

The Roma reach agreement for new Celik Mancini and Cristante contracts reflects the club’s ambition under the management of Daniele De Rossi. After qualifying for the Champions League last season, Roma are keen to build on that momentum rather than dismantle the squad. The new deals for Celik, Mancini, and Cristante, along with Dybala’s renewal, suggest that the Giallorossi are prioritizing continuity. This approach is often crucial for sustained success, especially in a competitive league like Serie A.

Zeki Celik’s renewal is particularly notable given that he was a free agent. The Turkish international joined Roma from Lille in 2022 and has been a reliable option at right-back, though he faces competition from Rasmus Kristensen. Mancini and Cristante, both Italian internationals, have been mainstays in the lineup. Mancini’s leadership at the back and Cristante’s versatility in midfield have made them indispensable. By securing their signatures, Roma avoid the risk of losing them on free transfers, which would have been a significant blow.

Looking ahead, the club’s focus now shifts to Pellegrini’s contract talks. The hometown hero and Roma captain is reportedly seeking a long-term deal that reflects his status. If Roma can complete that agreement, they will have effectively locked down their entire core. The moves have been met with approval from fans, who see them as a sign of stability after a period of transition. With the new contracts in place, Roma can now concentrate on strengthening other areas of the squad before the transfer window closes.

In conclusion, the Roma reach agreement for new Celik Mancini and Cristante contracts marks a successful summer for the club’s front office. By retaining these key players, Roma have ensured that their Champions League-qualifying team remains together. This foundation provides a solid base for De Rossi to build upon, and it sends a strong message about the club’s ambitions. With talk of Pellegrini’s extension ongoing, Roma are poised to keep their core together for the long haul.