Arsenal is looking for competition for William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes in the defense, with Evan Ndicka a top objective, but the Ivory Coast International has reportedly handed a blow to Mikel Arteta
Roma star Evan Ndicka is set to move a move to Arsenal, with the defender happy in the Italian capital after he had become one of the “immobile” players of the club. Ndicka was always present for Roma in the Serie A-season 2024-25 and started all 38 games when they finished fifth in the table under boss Claudio Ranieri.
The 25-year-old has done a number of solid displays at the back and is linked to some top clubs throughout Europe. Arsenal is supposed to be at the forefront of his signature while they want to add competition alongside William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
But Ndicka has rejected an opportunity to move to the side of Mikel Arteta for the stay at Roma, according to the Italian Outlet Corriere Dello Sport.
Even if Ndicka was interested in pursuing a move, any transfer would be difficult because Roma sees him as indispensable – emphasized him as one of the eight “immobile” stars this summer.
Roma has decided that Ndicka is not for sale – together with Mile Svilar, Gianluca Mancini, Manu Kone, Niccolo Pisilli, Angelino, Paulo Dybala and Matias Soule.
The report says that Ndicka is an “essential reference point” and one of the “two pillars” of their defense with Mancini. The club will want him to stay in place because they want to attract a new manager after the departure of Ranieri.
The report claims that the player wants to continue his excellent form at the club, even though the Champions League football team is missing.
Ndicka is an Ivory Coast International with 20 caps for his country. He has characterized Roma 82 times since he came to them in 2023.
He previously turned out to be Eintracht Frankfurt, where he played 183 games, after he started his career at the French side Auxerre.
Ndicka has previously talked about his future and stated last month that he is committed to Roma – at least until the end of his contract.
“I don't pretend I don't see the rumors,” Ndicka told L'Equipe. “But I have respect in Rome and I respect them. I have three years old about my contract, we will see what happens later.”
In addition to the defense, Arsenal Boss Arteta desperately wants to upgrade his forward options. Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres are two of his most important goals after they have been left without a recognized No. 9 for the season.