Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is expected to leave Besiktas this summer after just one season at the Turkish club.
Ndidi joined the Black Eagles from Leicester City in an €8 million deal last summer and arrived with high expectations. The Nigerian international was tipped to play a key role in the club’s title challenge, but Besiktas endured a frustrating campaign and eventually finished fourth in the Turkish Süper Lig standings, 17 points behind champions Galatasaray.
Following the disappointing season, Besiktas moved swiftly to reshape the team. The club parted ways with Sergen Yalçın and appointed Vincenzo Italiano as head coach.
Reports from Turkey suggest Ndidi is no longer considered a central figure in the club’s long-term plans, with Besiktas actively exploring the market for a new defensive midfielder ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
According to Turkish outlet Ajanshaber, a departure now appears increasingly likely, with clubs in the Saudi Pro League emerging as the strongest contenders for his signature.
Despite having two years remaining on his contract, there has been little concrete interest from Europe’s top leagues. Previous links to Manchester United have cooled considerably, particularly after the Premier League giants strengthened their midfield options and shifted their recruitment focus elsewhere.
With Ndidi set to celebrate his 30th birthday in December, the next move could be one of the most important decisions of his career. While he remains capable of competing at a high level, the opportunity to secure a financially rewarding contract in Saudi Arabia may prove difficult to ignore.
Saudi clubs have aggressively targeted experienced European-based stars in recent transfer windows, and Ndidi’s profile, experience, and leadership qualities make him an attractive option. His ability to shield the defence, break up opposition attacks, and dictate the tempo from deep midfield positions could make him a valuable addition to several ambitious Saudi Pro League sides.
For now, no official offer has been announced, but all indications point toward an exit from Besiktas before the close of the summer transfer window. Unless a surprise move from Europe materialises, Saudi Arabia appears to be the most likely destination for the former Leicester City midfielder as he prepares for the next chapter of his career.
