Ndidi Joins Besiktas, Linking Up With Former Man United Boss

Wilfred Ndidi is set to begin a new chapter in Turkey after agreeing a move to Besiktas, with the deal now at the final paperwork stage, according to Sky Sports Germany.

The Nigeria international is expected to arrive in Istanbul shortly to complete his medical and sign a three-year contract, with an option for a fourth.

Besiktas have reportedly agreed to pay Leicester City €9.5 million for the 28-year-old midfielder, who departs the East Midlands club after eight seasons and more than 240 appearances.

The move brings an end to weeks of speculation around Ndidi’s future following Leicester’s relegation from the Premier League.

While Manchester United, Everton, Borussia Dortmund, Real Betis and even Juventus were linked with a move for Ndidi, Besiktas were always in pole position to secure the signing.

José Mourinho’s Fenerbahce were also keen at some point after European clubs were made aware of the exit clause in Ndidi’s contract with Leicester.

However, La Liga side Valencia made a dramatic last-minute push in an attempt to hijack the deal, only to see their offer rejected outright by Leicester, as per Ben Jacobs.

Ndidi had already agreed personal terms with the Turkish giants and made it clear he wanted to continue playing top-tier football after Leicester’s brief drop into the Championship.

The opportunity to play under former Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who has managed Besiktas since the start of the year, was reportedly a key factor in Ndidi’s decision.

Besiktas are moving swiftly to conclude the final details, with the player expected to undergo his medical on Thursday. The deal is expected to be officially announced within the next few days.

Ndidi leaves Leicester as one of their longest-serving players in recent years, having arrived from Genk in 2017 and played a key role in their FA Cup triumph and Premier League campaigns.