Arsenal move ahead of Newcastle in race for €40m defender who has not missed a minute of Serie A action this season

La Gazzetta dello Sport report that the Gunners have made an enquiry for Roma defender Evan Ndicka, who arrived in the Italian capital in 2023 and has impressed in the 2024/25 campaign. The report states he would cost between €30-40m.

Ndicka's availability has been superb this season, playing every single minute of Roma's Serie A campaign. His impressive performances have alerted the Gunners, though Newcastle are also keen on signing the 25-year-old.

Ndicka was born in Paris and represented France throughout the age groups, playing for every team from Under-16s through to Under-21s. At senior level, however, he has declared for Ivory Coast and has managed 20 caps for Les Elephants.

A summer transfer battle looks likely, but for now Ndicka will be focused on ensuring Roma finish in the European qualification positions in Serie A this season. Claudio Ranieri's side currently sit sixth and are two points off the Champions League spots with four games to play.