Arsenal snubbed by 'immovable' Roma star as Arteta forced into transfer rethink

Arsenal are looking to provide competition to William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes in defence, with Evan Ndicka a top target, but the Ivory Coast international has reportedly handed a blow to Mikel Arteta

Roma star Evan Ndicka is set to snub a move to Arsenal, with the defender happy in the Italian capital after becoming one of the club's "immovable" players. Ndicka was an ever-present for Roma in the 2024-25 Serie A season, starting all 38 games as they finished fifth in the table under boss Claudio Ranieri.

The 25-year-old put in some solid displays at the back and has been linked with some top clubs across Europe. Arsenal are thought to be leading the way for his signature as they look to add competition alongside William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.

But Ndicka has turned down a chance to move to Mikel Arteta's side in favour of staying with Roma, according to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport.

Even if Ndicka was interested in pursuing a move, any transfer would prove difficult because Roma see him as indispensable - highlighting him as one of eight "immovable" stars this summer.

Roma have decided that Ndicka is not for sale - along with Mile Svilar, Gianluca Mancini, Manu Kone, Niccolo Pisilli, Angelino, Paulo Dybala and Matias Soule.

The report says Ndicka is a "essential point of reference" and one of the "two pillars" of their defence with Mancini. The club will want him to stay put as they look to attract a new manager following the departure of Ranieri.

The report claims the player wants to continue his excellent form at the club, despite the team missing out on Champions League football.

Ndicka is an Ivory Coast international with 20 caps for his country. He has featured 82 times for Roma since joining them in 2023.

He previously turned out for Eintracht Frankfurt, where he played 183 games, having started his career with French side Auxerre.

Ndicka has previously spoken out about his future, insisting last month that he was committed 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."

In addition to defence, Arsenal boss Arteta is desperately looking to upgrade his forward options. Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres are two of his major targets after being left without a recognised No 9 for the season.