Saudi Pro League giants Al Ahli have set their sights on Nigerian midfield powerhouse Wilfred Ndidi, with negotiations reportedly underway as the club intensifies its efforts to lure top African talent to the Middle East. The Leicester City star is expected to depart the King Power Stadium this summer following the club’s relegation from the Premier League.
According to respected Saudi sports outlet Arriyadiyah, Al Ahli have already made initial contact with Ndidi’s representatives and are hopeful of securing his services ahead of the 2025/2026 campaign. The 28-year-old defensive midfielder is believed to have a £9 million release clause in his contract, which still has two years remaining.
Ndidi Likely to Exit Leicester After Relegation
Ndidi’s potential move comes as Leicester prepares for another campaign in the Championship after failing to secure immediate promotion back to the English top flight. Despite his consistent performances over the years, the Nigeria international is reportedly eager to explore new challenges outside of England — especially with clubs from Europe and Asia circling.
Sources close to the situation suggest that Al Ahli are not the only suitors monitoring Ndidi, but the Saudi side has made the most concrete approach so far.
“Wilfred is open to a new chapter, and there are ongoing discussions,” a source close to the player confirmed to Africalivenews under anonymity. “He’s been loyal to Leicester, but at this point in his career, he’s ready to consider offers that reflect his value and ambition.”
Al Ahli’s Growing Nigerian Connection
Al Ahli’s pursuit of Ndidi is part of a broader strategy by the Saudi club to tap into Africa’s footballing talent, particularly Nigeria’s golden generation. The Jeddah-based club is also reportedly monitoring Victor Osimhen, the Napoli striker and Nigeria’s current number one forward.
While Osimhen’s valuation is considerably higher — north of £90 million, according to Italian reports — Al Ahli’s interest underscores their ambitions to build a competitive team by attracting star players from both Europe and Africa.
“The Saudi league is evolving, and clubs like Al Ahli are investing heavily,” a football analyst in Riyadh noted. “Players like Ndidi bring top-tier European experience and can transform the league’s competitiveness and visibility.”
Ndidi’s Career at a Glance
Since joining Leicester City from Genk in January 2017, Ndidi has earned a reputation as one of the most disciplined and effective ball-winning midfielders in the Premier League. During his time at the club, he helped the Foxes win the FA Cup in 2021 and was a key part of their European campaigns.
His ability to read the game, break up opposition play, and protect the backline made him a standout performer. However, Leicester’s recent struggles, including relegation and managerial instability, have raised questions about his long-term future at the club.
Despite the club’s demotion, Ndidi remained one of their most consistent performers during the 2024/25 campaign — even captaining the side on a few occasions.
Saudi Pro League Continues Aggressive Recruitment Drive
Ndidi could follow in the footsteps of other big-name players who have recently moved to Saudi Arabia, such as Sadio Mané, Riyad Mahrez, Karim Benzema, and Neymar. The Saudi Pro League has become an attractive destination for players looking for new opportunities, lucrative contracts, and the chance to be part of a rapidly growing football project.
Al Ahli, one of the most prestigious clubs in the Kingdom, was promoted back to the Saudi top flight last season and has been aggressively reinforcing its squad under new ownership. Signing a high-profile African player like Ndidi would further boost their midfield and raise their international profile.
“It’s not just about the money anymore,” a Saudi football executive told Arriyadiyah. “It’s about building a league that competes globally. Players like Wilfred Ndidi bring leadership, experience, and pedigree.”
What’s Next for Ndidi?
While a move to Al Ahli is not yet finalized, the Saudi club’s early engagement and the appealing offer on the table make them strong contenders to land the Nigerian international. It remains to be seen whether Ndidi will accept a move outside Europe or wait to see if offers arrive from top clubs in the Bundesliga or La Liga.
Ndidi’s representatives have reportedly been in contact with other interested parties in Europe, but none have yet triggered the £9 million release clause. Should Al Ahli move swiftly, they could seal the deal before other clubs make formal offers.
“We’re weighing all the options carefully,” a source close to Ndidi said. “Wilfred wants to be somewhere he feels valued and can contribute meaningfully. Whether that’s in Europe or the Middle East, we’ll know soon.”
Conclusion
Wilfred Ndidi’s potential transfer to Al Ahli could mark another milestone in the Saudi Pro League’s evolution into a global football destination. With his proven experience in England and on the international stage with Nigeria, the 28-year-old would not only bolster Al Ahli’s midfield but also serve as a major ambassador for African football in Asia.
As the summer transfer window heats up, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see whether Ndidi makes the move to the Middle East — or if another twist lies ahead in what promises to be a busy transfer saga.
