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Arsenal have escalated their pursuit of Roma’s commanding center-back Evan Ndicka, with Mikel Arteta personally driving the club’s interest in the 25-year-old Ivorian defender. Multiple sources confirm the Gunners have made formal enquiries about the defender’s availability, with Roma setting an asking price between €30-40 million.
Arsenal’s Defensive Reinforcement Plan Takes Shape
The north London club’s interest comes as no surprise to insiders tracking Arsenal’s recruitment strategy. Despite narrowly missing out on Premier League glory for consecutive seasons, Arteta’s squad has shown remarkable progress, recently securing a coveted Champions League semi-final berth. However, their defensive depth remains a concern that could be addressed through this potential summer acquisition.
Key details about Arsenal’s pursuit:
- Formal enquiry already submitted to Roma
- Asking price set between €30-40 million
- Player viewed as being at peak physical condition at age 25
- Arsenal technical staff believe Ndicka’s attributes perfectly suit Premier League demands
When examining Arsenal’s defensive situation, the numbers tell an interesting story. While the Gunners have maintained one of the league’s best defensive records this season, Arteta’s squad rotation options remain limited. The addition of Ndicka would provide crucial depth across a campaign that could stretch to over 60 matches next season.
Ndicka’s Premier League Attraction
Sources close to the player suggest the opportunity to join Arsenal would prove “impossible to resist” for Ndicka. The defender, who has impressed in Serie A with his physicality and technical abilities, views Arsenal as the perfect platform to elevate his career to the next level.
“Moving to a club competing for major trophies and playing Champions League football represents exactly the challenge Evan is looking for at this stage of his career,” said one source familiar with the player’s thinking.
The 6’4″ defender’s statistical profile reveals why Arsenal are so keen. Ndicka has completed 87% of his passes this season while winning 64% of his aerial duels – precisely the commanding presence Arsenal’s technical staff have identified as necessary for their backline.
Newcastle Enter the Race
Arsenal aren’t alone in their admiration for the Roma defender. Newcastle United have emerged as serious competitors for Ndicka’s signature, with Eddie Howe’s side actively searching for a quality partner for Sven Botman in central defense.
The Magpies’ financial muscle following their Saudi-backed takeover means they can easily match Roma’s valuation, potentially setting up a bidding war between the two Premier League sides.
Newcastle’s long-standing interest in the player dates back several transfer windows, but their push for Champions League qualification has intensified their need for defensive reinforcements.
With both clubs preparing summer offers, Roma find themselves in a strong negotiating position. The Italian club, however, appears resigned to losing their defensive stalwart, with preparations already underway to identify potential replacements.
As Arsenal and Newcastle prepare to battle for his signature, one thing remains clear – Evan Ndicka’s Serie A days appear numbered, with Premier League football beckoning for the Ivorian international.
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