According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, if De Vrij departs, Internazionale's primary defensive target is Roma center-back Evan N'Dicka.
Internazionale's summer rebuild will prioritize the defense, which is crucial for their Serie A title defense and European ambitions. N'Dicka remains a top target for this reason.
N'Dicka brings valuable Serie A experience after three years at Roma following his free transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt. He also has extensive European competition experience. Among Inter's defensive targets, the Ivorian is the only one currently representing his country at the World Cup (his national team coach persisted in selecting him despite a hamstring injury) and the most experienced in continental competitions.
At 26, N'Dicka is in his prime—he turns 27 on August 20. For Inter, he represents an ideal balance: technically gifted (1.92m tall, left-footed, excellent physicality, strong in the air), yet not a youth prospect requiring development. These attributes align perfectly with Chivu's defensive philosophy.
N'Dicka's trophy cabinet includes the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, the 2022 Europa League with Frankfurt, and he was part of Roma's 2022 Conference League-winning squad. He has 58 Europa League appearances (Frankfurt and Roma) and 8 Champions League appearances (Frankfurt), concentrated in the season after Frankfurt's Europa League success. However, he hasn't featured in the Champions League since joining Roma—until last season when Roma finished third and secured Champions League qualification for the first time in seven years. N'Dicka was a consistent starter in Ranieri's defense.
Inter's interest in N'Dicka intensified when Barcelona showed interest in Bastoni, and again when Real Madrid reportedly considered him. The pursuit has remained steady even as Inter pursues other targets. While Inter also negotiates with Udinese for Lautaro Isaura, N'Dicka remains central to their planning.
The two targets differ significantly. With De Vrij's departure increasingly likely, N'Dicka is a primary candidate for Inter's defensive reinforcement. June 30 is a critical deadline, especially for Roma, which must generate €60 million in capital gains before then due to Financial Fair Play requirements. Despite Roma's reluctance to sell, this financial pressure may force their hand. N'Dicka is valued at €40 million, a figure that includes compensation for the player and his representatives.
Regarding Isaura, Inter and Udinese remain approximately €5 million apart—a gap easily bridged with modest negotiation. During the early transfer window, Inter has been among Italy's most active clubs, signaling ambition to competitors and supporters.
The Palestra deal could conclude shortly, with another meeting expected early next week. Midfield reorganization depends on English developments, with announcements expected soon. Once Frattesi's transfer to Nottingham Forest is finalized, Inter will launch a decisive bid for Curtis Jones.