Leicester City have turned down a €7 million offer from Turkish giants Besiktas for Nigerian midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, amid growing interest from major clubs across Europe.
According to a report from DAILY POST, Besiktas are among several clubs eager to sign the experienced Super Eagles international during the summer transfer window. However, Leicester City, newly promoted back to the Premier League, are standing firm on their valuation of the 28-year-old midfield dynamo.
Ndidi, who has been a mainstay in Leicester’s midfield since his arrival in January 2017 from Belgian Pro League side KRC Genk, has a €9 million release clause embedded in his current contract. The Foxes are reportedly unwilling to entertain any bids below that figure.
European Heavyweights Monitoring Situation
While Besiktas appear determined to secure Ndidi’s signature and are expected to return with an improved offer, they face stiff competition from some of Europe’s most prominent clubs. The Nigerian has been linked with the likes of Manchester United, Juventus, and Borussia Dortmund in recent weeks, signalling that the race for his services is far from over.
Manchester United, in particular, are looking to bolster their midfield options after a mixed campaign last season. Ndidi’s defensive prowess, ball-winning ability, and experience in English football make him an attractive prospect for Erik ten Hag’s side.
Meanwhile, Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund and Serie A powerhouse Juventus are also monitoring the situation, both seeing Ndidi as a reliable addition to strengthen their midfield depth heading into the 2025/26 campaign.
Ndidi’s Legacy at Leicester
Since joining Leicester in the winter of 2017, Wilfred Ndidi has made over 250 appearances across all competitions for the club. Known for his tenacity, interceptions, and tactical discipline, he quickly earned a reputation as one of the Premier League’s top defensive midfielders.
Ndidi played a crucial role in Leicester City’s historic 2020/21 FA Cup triumph under former manager Brendan Rodgers, adding a major trophy to his club career achievements. Despite suffering from recurring injuries in recent seasons, he remains a key figure for the Foxes and their ambitions in England’s top flight.
Following the club’s brief relegation to the Championship and immediate return to the Premier League, Ndidi’s performances last season were pivotal in securing promotion. His leadership and experience are viewed by Leicester’s management as vital assets heading into the new campaign.
Contract and Transfer Speculations
Ndidi has two years remaining on his current contract, which runs until June 2027. While Leicester may be open to cashing in on the player this summer to avoid the risk of losing him for less down the line, they are determined not to undersell such a valuable asset.
The midfielder’s release clause stands at €9 million, and unless Besiktas or any other suitor meets that figure, a deal is unlikely to be agreed upon. Turkish news outlet Takvim reports that Besiktas are preparing a fresh bid as they push to finalize the deal before the transfer window closes.
For Ndidi, a potential move to a club like Besiktas could offer regular European football and a new challenge after nearly a decade in English football. However, the lure of playing for a Champions League club like Manchester United or Dortmund may prove more tempting if formal offers materialize.
International Career and Future Prospects
On the international front, Ndidi remains a vital component of the Nigerian national team. He has earned over 50 caps since making his senior debut in 2015 and featured prominently during Nigeria’s campaigns in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
His experience and leadership are expected to be key as the Super Eagles prepare for the 2025 AFCON and the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers. A move to a top European side could further sharpen his competitive edge and benefit the national team setup.
Leicester’s Midfield Planning
For Leicester City, the summer transfer window presents a critical period of squad reshaping ahead of their return to the Premier League. Manager Steve Cooper will be looking to solidify his midfield and ensure depth in case Ndidi departs.
Although the Foxes have midfield options in the likes of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Harry Winks, and Boubakary Soumaré, none bring the same level of defensive acumen as Ndidi. Replacing him will be no easy task, and the club would need to act swiftly to find a suitable replacement if a transfer is confirmed.
Verdict
While Leicester City have made their stance clear regarding Wilfred Ndidi’s valuation, the player remains one of the most sought-after midfielders on the market this summer. With Turkish giants Besiktas planning a renewed bid and other European heavyweights lurking in the background, the coming weeks promise to be decisive.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Ndidi’s next move. Whether he stays to lead Leicester’s Premier League charge or embarks on a new chapter abroad, the Nigerian star’s future remains one of the most intriguing transfer sagas to watch this summer.
