Inter Milan are prioritizing Roma defender Evan Ndicka as a potential replacement should Stefan De Vrij depart the club, according to reports in Italy. The Nerazzurri are actively reshaping their defense ahead of the upcoming season, aiming to solidify their position as Serie A champions and improve their Champions League performance.
Ndicka has spent the last three seasons in Serie A with Roma, having joined from Eintracht Frankfurt on a free transfer. His experience in the Italian top flight, coupled with his European pedigree, makes him an attractive option for Inter. He currently represents Ivory Coast at the World Cup, despite a recent thigh injury, demonstrating his importance to the national team. The 26-year-old possesses qualities that appeal to Inter coach Cristian Chivu, including his 192cm height, left-footedness, and aerial ability.
Ndicka has accumulated significant European experience, featuring in 58 Europa League matches with Roma and Eintracht Frankfurt, as well as 8 Champions League appearances for the German side. He was a member of the Eintracht Frankfurt team that won the Europa League in 2022 and the Ivory Coast squad that lifted the Africa Cup of Nations in 2024. He recently helped Roma secure a Champions League spot for next season, solidifying his role as a key player under manager Daniele De Rossi.
The interest in Ndicka initially surfaced when Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni attracted attention from Barcelona, and again when Real Madrid expressed interest in the Italian international. While Inter are also pursuing other defensive options, such as Oumar Solet of Udinese, Ndicka remains a leading candidate, particularly if De Vrij leaves. Roma are under pressure to generate €60 million in player sales by June 30th to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations, potentially making Ndicka’s sale more likely. The club values the player at approximately €40 million, factoring in agent fees and potential bonuses.
Inter are demonstrating a proactive approach to the transfer window, having already agreed terms for Marco Palestra and are progressing in negotiations for Curtis Jones, contingent on the sale of Davide Frattesi to Nottingham Forest. These moves signal the club’s ambition and commitment to strengthening their squad for continued success.
