Arsenal have reportedly opened talks over a deal to sign AS Roma centre-back Evan Ndicka, as per Italian outlet LaRoma24.
After running his contract down with German side Eintracht Frankfurt, the Ivory Coast international joined the Giallorossi as a free agent a couple of years ago.
However, he struggled with some health problems in his debut campaign at Stadio Olimpico and even collapsed during a Serie A game. Thankfully, he has managed to recover from that issue and was at his best last campaign.
In 38 appearances in Serie A, the 25-year-old registered a solitary assist and kept 16 clean sheets. Moreover, he was disciplined, picking up only two yellow cards throughout the campaign.
The Giallorossi endured a dismal start to last season, but Ndicka played a key role in helping the team navigate through that difficult period. Eventually, Roma ended the campaign in fifth spot, meaning they have qualified for the Europa League next season.
Now, LaRoma24 claim that having been impressed by the African’s displays last campaign, Arsenal have registered their interest in him and have held talks to learn about the details of signing him.
Roma want at least £34m to let their star man leave if they are forced to cash-in this summer, with his existing deal set to run until 2028.
However, the Italian outlet report that purchasing the Ivory Coast international won’t be straightforward for the North London club as Newcastle United have also made contact over this deal.
Ndicka, standing at 6ft 3in tall, is a left-footed centre-back. He is comfortable playing out from the back and is a composed defender.
The Gunners have prioritised strengthening the centre-forward position this summer, with Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres heavily linked with a move.
However, with Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kieran Tierney set to move away, Arsenal are seemingly planning to hire a new left-sided defender as well.
Ndicka possesses the physical attributes to flourish in the Premier League, so he might be a shrewd acquisition for Arsenal should they purchase him.
However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club eventually make a concrete approach to lure him to the Emirates Stadium this summer.
