Roma's Evan Ndicka is reportedly set to reject a move to Arsenal, with the centre-back content in Rome after establishing himself as a key player for the Giallorossi. Ndicka was a mainstay in Roma's defence throughout the 2024-25 Serie A campaign, featuring in every match as they secured a fifth-place finish under Claudio Ranieri.
The 25-year-old's consistent performances have attracted attention from several elite European clubs, with Arsenal having long been linked with holding an interest in the player, aiming to bolster their defensive options alongside William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
However, Italian media outlet Corriere dello Sport [via the Mirror.] suggests that Ndicka has spurned the opportunity to join Mikel Arteta's squad, preferring to remain with Roma.
Even if Ndicka were open to a transfer, prising him away from Roma would be challenging, as the club regards him as one of their eight "immovable" players this transfer window.
Roma have made it clear that Ndicka, along with Mile Svilar, Gianluca Mancini, Manu Kone, Niccolo Pisilli, Angelino, Paulo Dybala, and Matias Soule, are not on the market.
Described as an "essential point of reference" and one of the "two pillars" of Roma's defence alongside Mancini, Ndicka is seen as vital to the team's ambitions, especially as they seek a new manager following Ranieri's exit.
Despite Roma missing out on Champions League qualification, the report indicates that Ndicka is keen to continue his impressive trajectory at the club.
Ndicka, an Ivory Coast international with 20 appearances for his country, has played 82 matches for Roma since joining them in 2023.
Before that, he had a stint at Eintracht Frankfurt, where he featured in 183 games, having kick-started his career with French outfit Auxerre.
Last month, Ndicka addressed his future, affirming his commitment to Roma - at least until the end of his contract.
"I'm not pretending that I don't see the rumours,' Ndicka told L'Equipe. "But I have respect in Rome and I respect them. I have three years remaining on my contract, we will see what happens later."
Besides bolstering his defence, Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta already setting about enhancing the club's attacking options. Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres are among his prime targets after the club found themselves without a recognised No. 9 for the season.
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Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus with the Arsenal Therapy Dog Win during the Arsenal Men's team group shoot at London Colney on September 18, 2023
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