Arsenal and Tottenham are in talks with Evan Ndicka over a move in January or on a free transfer in the summer.
Christian Falk has told Caught Offside that Evan Ndicka is a target for north London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham. The 23-year-old French defender is an attractive prospect and might be available for a Bosman move in the summer. Talks now are vital as he might also agree on an extension with Eintracht Frankfurt.
Evan Ndicka’s long-term future remains undecided as the 23-year-old French defender is an exciting prospect available on the cheap in the current window. The centre-back’s contract with Eintracht Frankfurt expires in the summer, meaning he could leave on a Bosman move after the season ends.
Earlier reports were suggesting Arsenal had already agreed on a free transfer with Ndicka. But they turned out to be false stories. The 23-year-old French defender remains an exciting prospect, but there is hope for Frankfurt to extend his deal.
Frankfurt have reportedly offered a three-year extension on the table, which Ndicka is considering. Christian Falk says there is interest from Arsenal, but they are yet to show serious intention. Hence, the German outfit are not worried about the defender’s future and remain confident about an extension.
Ndicka could also agree on a pre-contract with suitors outside of Germany. Arsenal and Tottenham may appear to be the only clubs showing interest, alongside AC Milan. Falk insists that Ndicka may end up signing the extension, which may be bad news for suitors.
Arsenal will enter the summer market looking for a new centre-back, irrespective of what happens with the futures of Rob Holding and William Saliba. The latter has cemented his place in the backline, but the Englishman could depart if his situation remains the same.
Either way, Mikel Arteta is keen on reinforcing the backline with another defender. Tottenham are also interested in signing Ndicka. Antonio Conte wants to bring in several players in various positions. The prospect of a top-rated centre-back on a free transfer might please the Italian.
He could then focus the limited funds on other areas. Conte is keen on adding new defenders to his squad, and these will be ones that will start games regularly. They could tempt players like Ndicka into signing up for the project based on regular and ample game time. But failure to qualify for the Champions League may have a ripple effect on those plans.
Arsenal might be the favourites if Ndicka decides against signing an extension with Frankfurt. The next few weeks will prove crucial in determining the defender’s overall plan and whether he intends to leave Germany for English pastures.
