Arsenal have reportedly agreed to sign Eintracht Frankfurt defender Evan Ndicka when his contract expires next summer.
Ndicka, 23, has established himself as one of the most impressive defenders in the Bundesliga since he joined Frankfurt from French side Auxerre in July 2018. He helped Frankfurt win the Europa League in May, beating Rangers on penalties in the final in Seville.
The former France youth international has just over six months remaining on his deal and it is believed a number of top European clubs are interested in signing him, including Jose Mourinho's Roma. Yet Arsenal are thought to be leading the transfer race.
According to Italian outlet Il Romanista, Ndicka wants to leave Frankfurt on a free transfer next summer unless a club makes him an attractive offer in the January transfer window. Roma sporting director Tiago Pinto is reportedly considering a move for the defender.
Despite Roma's interest, it's believed Ndicka's preference is to join Arsenal next summer. Rumours suggest there's even a verbal agreement between the Frenchman and the Gunners. Formal talks can't start until he enters the final six months of his deal in the new year.
Signing Ndicka on a free transfer would be quite the swoop for Arsenal. The talent, who has made 178 senior appearances for Auxerre and Frankfurt, was named in the Bundesliga Team of the Season last term ahead of more established defenders.
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Ndicka was left out of France's squad for the World Cup in Qatar and is yet to earn his first senior cap, although he has represented his country at several youth levels - including Under-21. His primary position is centre-back but he can also play at left-back.
Ndicka's performances this season have helped Frankfurt reach the last 16 of the Champions League, where they'll face Serie A leaders Napoli. Frankfurt are also doing well in the Bundesliga, sitting in fourth, seven points behind leaders Bayern Munich.
Arsenal have been linked with Ndicka throughout 2022. Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has four centre-backs at his disposal this season in Ben White, Gabriel, William Saliba and Rob Holding. Takehiro Tomiyasu can also be deployed at the heart of the defence.
"I honestly have to say that I was surprised by his development," former Frankfurt boss Adi Hutter said of Ndicka. "Evan has developed phenomenally. He's very attentive in the analysis of his own game. He's very modest and always takes a lot on board."
Speaking in October, Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krosche revealed contract talks are still ongoing between the club and Ndicka's representatives. The German side will be determined to keep a young player of his quality on their books.
"There has not yet been a decision as to which direction to go, we didn’t give them an ultimatum either," said Krosche. "The offer is still available and we are in exchanges."
