Arsenal have made the first steps towards beating Newcastle to the signing of a defender who has not missed a minute of Serie A action this season.

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Arsenal and Newcastle chasing Serie A defenderGunners lead €40m raceArteta wants to strengthen squad furtherFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

La Gazzetta dello Sport report that the Gunners have made an enquiry for Roma defender Evan Ndicka, who arrived in the Italian capital in 2023 and has impressed in the 2024/25 campaign. The report states he would cost between €30-40m.

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Ndicka's availability has been superb this season, playing every single minute of Roma's Serie A campaign. His impressive performances have alerted the Gunners, though Newcastle are also keen on signing the 25-year-old.

DID YOU KNOW?

Ndicka was born in Paris and represented France throughout the age groups, playing for every team from Under-16s through to Under-21s. At senior level, however, he has declared for Ivory Coast and has managed 20 caps for Les Elephants.

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Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR NDICKA?

A summer transfer battle looks likely, but for now Ndicka will be focused on ensuring Roma finish in the European qualification positions in Serie A this season. Claudio Ranieri's side currently sit sixth and are two points off the Champions League spots with four games to play.