Olympique de Marseille are continuing their determined push to sign AS Roma centre-back Evan Ndicka, despite the Italian club’s reluctance to let the Ivorian defender leave for anything less than a substantial fee.
Negotiations between the two clubs remain ongoing, with Marseille keen to reinforce their defensive line ahead of the new campaign.
According to Treize by Soccer on X, the Ligue 1 outfit has made Ndicka a priority target and is actively working to find an agreement with Roma, who are holding firm on their valuation.
While a swap deal had previously been proposed by Marseille, Roma reportedly rejected the offer, insisting instead on a minimum transfer fee of €25 million, excluding any performance-related bonuses.
The Giallorossi are understood to be open to a sale, but only on terms that reflect Ndicka’s current market value and his long-term importance to the squad.
Ndicka, who is under contract in the Italian capital until June 2028, has drawn attention from a number of high-profile clubs across Europe.
Galatasaray, Arsenal, Newcastle United, and Manchester United are all said to be closely monitoring the situation, increasing pressure on Marseille to act swiftly.
La piste Ndicka n’est pas encore enterrée. Les discussions continuent, on cherche toujours un terrain d’entente.
En parallèle, l’OM avance aussi sur Aguerd, un profil qui plaît beaucoup.
Il reste du boulot, mais Ndicka, c’est clairement encore envisageable.#TeamOM #MercatOM #OM— 𝕋𝕣𝕖𝕚𝕫𝕖 𝕓𝕪 𝕊𝕠𝕔𝕔𝕖𝕣 (@TREIZEBYSOCCER) July 5, 2025
Despite the competition, OM remain confident in their pursuit.
Sources indicate that the Ivorian international is interested in a move to the Stade Vélodrome, which could prove decisive in the final stages of the negotiation process.
The club views Ndicka as a more viable option than Moroccan defender Nayef Aguerd, another name on their shortlist, and are prioritising the Roma man as their key defensive target.
With a market valuation of €30 million on Transfermarkt and an annual salary of €5.13 million (approximately 3.33 billion FCFA), Ndicka represents a significant investment.
However, Marseille’s continued interest signals their commitment to strengthening their backline with proven international quality.
The coming days could be crucial as Marseille attempt to finalise a deal and fend off interest from rival clubs.
For now, the transfer remains in a delicate phase, with both sides weighing their options amid mounting interest and a tight summer window.
Ndicka’s next move could shape the defensive strategies of multiple clubs in the months ahead, but for Marseille, securing his signature would be a major statement of intent.
