- Manchester United and Liverpool battling for Ndicka
- Roma centre-back cost upwards of £40 million
- European elite circling round
Manchester United have reportedly added Liverpool’s defensive target Evan Ndicka to their wishlist. The Ivorian is highly coveted amid a fine season at AS Roma in Serie A.
Ndicka comes highly rated and is attracting interest from continental heavyweights, including Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Tottenham Hotspur. The Roma defender is causing a stir, with fees expected to climb to around £40 million as clubs battle for the Ivorian’s signature.
The Ivorian joins a host of other defensive and midfield targets that United have firmly set their sights on, as the club looks to reshape the spine of the team.
Ndicka Ticks United’s Boxes
Whilst primarily a central defender, Ndicka has shown the versatility to operate at left-back and this could help alleviate a heavy workload on Luke Shaw next season.
The Ivorian has helped Roma keep 10 clean sheets in Serie A this season, aiding their push into the league’s top six. Since arriving from German side Eintracht Frankfurt ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, Ndicka has established himself as one of the most reliable defenders in Italy.
The 26-year-old has featured 119 times for the club, including playing every single league match in the previous season. His progressive passing is elite, with 88.8% of his balls going forward, whilst he is also exceptional in the air, winning 56.1% of his aerial battles.
Data taken from DataMB
Ndicka has consistently made strides on the international stage. Despite being born in France and representing the nation at every youth level from U15 to U21, he ultimately switched allegiance to the Ivory Coast due to strong competition in the French side.
This move allowed him to secure regular international opportunities while continuing his development at the highest level. It ultimately worked out for Ndicka as well, as he played every minute of the 2023 African Cup of Nations, helping the Ivory Coast lift the trophy after suffering two defeats in the group stage.
Could Ndicka be on the Move?
AS Roma may have no choice but to cash in on the defender after reaching financial agreements with UEFA, which could force them to sell key players before June 30.
With Roma in a sticky situation, selling Ndicka may be crucial. The Ivorian joined on a free transfer, so his sale would result in 100% profit.
It is unlikely, however, that United would make a move for him. Although he is capable of playing both as a centre-back and left-back, Ndicka excels at the heart of the defence rather than at full-back.
With a solid core of key defenders already at United, it seems unlikely the club would gamble on shifting him into a new position when there are pressing needs elsewhere on the pitch.
