Arsenal secure deal to sign Frankfurt defender Evan Ndicka

Mikel Arteta manager of Arsenal against Fulham at Emirates Stadium-Premier League
Mikel Arteta manager of Arsenal against Fulham at Emirates Stadium-Premier League

Arsenal have reportedly agreed to a deal to sign Eintracht Frankfurt defender Evan Ndicka.

The Gunners had always wanted to sign the Frankfurt centre-back but could not get him last summer. However, they have won the race for Ndicka, who is out of contract at the end of the season, fending off interest from AS Roma to land the Frenchman.

According to Il Romanista via The Sun, Mikel Arteta’s men have already secured a pre-contract agreement with the 23-year-old who wants to see out the season with Frankfurt, before joining the Gunners next season. 

Ndicka has impressed in European competition and helped Frankfurt win the Europa League last season. The former Auxerre man has made 162 appearances for the Bundesliga side since joining in 2018.

Meanwhile, Arsenal coach Arteta has revealed that his side will “look at the options” as they consider bringing in a replacement for the injured Gabriel Jesus.

The Brazil striker underwent surgery on Tuesday after picking an injury when playing against Cameroon for Brazil. The striker is expected to be out for around three months–a huge blow to Arsenal and their chances of winning the Premier League title. 

Speaking after Arsenal’s 3-0 win against Lyon in the Dubai Super Cup whether Jesus’ injury will affect Arsenal’s January transfer plans, the Gunners coach said: 

“What it affects is who we are as a team because he gives us so much, so what we can do after that, when we know the timescale [of his recovery] and when we can have him back, we will look at the options and try to make the right decision.”

Arteta also revealed he is satisfied with his squad, but also admitted he will look to improve the squad. 

“I feel like my squad is really good. Unfortunately, we’ve had injuries and we will try to see what we can do to be strong. We have players, we have a lot of accompanying players. [The question is] do we have the players that can give us the performances and the consistency that we need to maintain and improve from where we are?”