Soccer
Wilfred Ndidi of Nigeria. Photo by Segun Ogunfeyitimi Copyright: xshengolpixsxIMAGO
Nigeria international Wilfred Ndidi could be on his way out of Beşiktaş despite impressing for the Istanbul giants during the 2025-26 season, Soccernet.ng reports.
This is as several Saudi Pro League clubs are reportedly preparing to make lucrative offers for the Super Eagles midfielder.
Ndidi only joined the Turkish giants from Leicester City in August 2025 in a deal worth around €8 million, but his impressive performances have quickly increased his market value. Ndidi established himself as a key figure in midfield during the campaign, making 31 appearances across all competitions and becoming one of the first names on the team sheet.
Although the 29-year-old remains under contract until June 2028, Beşiktaş are understood to be open to selling if interested clubs meet their valuation. The Istanbul club are reportedly seeking at least €10 million and could hold out for offers closer to €15 million. Apart from interest from Saudi Arabia, Ndidi has also been linked with a return to top-level European football, with Manchester United and Ajax among the clubs reportedly monitoring his situation.
Soccer Beşiktaş move for Mandragora as Wilfred Ndidi replacement
With uncertainty growing over Ndidi’s future, Beşiktaş have already begun planning for a possible departure by opening talks with Fiorentina over Italian midfielder Rolando Mandragora.
The move is being strongly backed by new Beşiktaş manager Vincenzo Italiano, who worked closely with Mandragora during his time at Fiorentina, as per TgrtHaber. The coach reportedly sees the 28-year-old as the ideal player to take over the holding midfield role should Ndidi leave this summer.
Beşiktaş value Mandragora at around €9 million and are unwilling to exceed their budget. If Fiorentina demand a higher fee, the Turkish side could propose a loan deal with an option to buy.
Mandragora enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 Serie A season, making 34 league appearances while contributing seven goals and three assists. His defensive discipline, passing range and tactical understanding have made him a priority target for Italiano as Beşiktaş prepare for every possible outcome regarding Ndidi’s future.
A former Nigeria youth international, Ndidi arrived in Europe in 2015 and has since only played for three clubs; Genk, Leicester City and Besiktas.
Imhonlamhen
Imhonlamhen is a football writer and editor at Soccernet.ng with over six years’ experience shaping its editorial voice. A lifelong Arsenal and Super Eagles fan, he combines engineering precision with training in journalism and digital media. He has covered four AFCONs and two Women’s AFCON tournaments, specialising in Super Eagles history and tracking Nigerian players worldwide, while keeping a close eye on the NPFL and emerging homegrown talents.
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