Evan Ndicka is poised to leave AS Roma this summer, with Olympique de Marseille reportedly emerging as a serious contender for the Ivorian international’s signature.
The 25-year-old central defender, who joined Roma from Eintracht Frankfurt in 2023, is understood to be exploring options for the upcoming season.
While interest from Saudi Arabian clubs has been noted, reports in Italy suggest a move back to Ligue 1 could be on the cards, with Marseille keen to bolster their defensive line ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
Italian football journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has reported that Marseille are considering a direct swap deal involving Ndicka and midfielder Ismaël Koné, who recently returned to Watford following a loan spell at Stade Rennais.
The Canadian-Ivorian midfielder is also believed to be on Roma’s radar, creating a possible avenue for negotiation between the two clubs.
A return to France would mark a homecoming of sorts for Ndicka, who was developed in the youth academy of AJ Auxerre before making his senior breakthrough in Ligue 2.
He later moved to the Bundesliga, where he enjoyed a highly successful five-year spell with Eintracht Frankfurt, including a UEFA Europa League triumph in 2022.
Joining Roma was seen as the next major step in his career, but the defender has experienced an inconsistent season in Serie A, and the club now appears open to his departure.
While Roma have not made any official announcement, internal discussions suggest they would be willing to part with the player for the right terms—especially if a deal involving a valuable midfield asset such as Koné can be struck.
For Marseille, the opportunity to sign an experienced, physically commanding left-footed centre-back comes at a critical time.
The club is preparing for a return to the UEFA Champions League, and strengthening the squad with proven talent is a key objective for manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Ndicka, with his European experience and familiarity with French football, fits that profile well.
From the player’s perspective, the move could offer both a fresh start and the chance to re-establish himself at the highest level. A return to Ligue 1, particularly with a Champions League side, is reportedly an attractive proposition.
While no agreement has yet been reached, Marseille’s interest appears genuine, and dialogue between the clubs is expected to continue in the coming weeks.
Ndicka’s contract with Roma runs until 2028, meaning any transfer would require financial compensation or a mutually beneficial exchange.
Whether the potential inclusion of Ismaël Koné would satisfy Roma’s valuation remains to be seen.
As the summer transfer window draws near, Ndicka’s situation will be one to watch closely. With clubs across Europe and the Middle East showing interest, and Marseille now firmly in the mix, the Ivorian international looks set for another chapter in an already well-travelled career.
