Arsenal are building something. Again.
But this time, they’re less interested in noise and more obsessed with necessity.
With title heartbreaks haunting their last three campaigns, the Gunners are no longer satisfied with flair. They crave steel. They crave depth. And according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, they’re now in talks to sign AS Roma centre-back Evan Ndicka.
Nothing is done. But intent? Loud.
Ndicka isn’t just another defender. He’s the spine of Claudio Ranieri’s Roma—a side currently 18 games unbeaten in Serie A. Thirty-four appearances. Over 4000 minutes. And not a second wasted.
Consistency. Versatility. Composure.
The Ivorian international, born in Paris, has locked down Roma’s left-sided defence, slotting seamlessly into both back fours and back threes. His calm under pressure mirrors the traits Mikel Arteta now demands—traits already glimpsed in Jakub Kiwior, Jurrien Timber, and Takehiro Tomiyasu.
Roma have slapped a €40 million (£34 million) tag on his name.
Arsenal are not alone. Newcastle want him too. But Ndicka’s camp are reportedly leaning toward London, toward Arteta, toward purpose. And purpose is what Arsenal are selling now.
Not just another signing. Not just another French-born talent. But a puzzle piece—perhaps the final one in a defence that has broken down when it mattered most.
Yes, there’s talk of midfield and attack reinforcements.
But every great campaign starts at the back. Arsenal know it. And Evan Ndicka may be the one to start it.