Beşiktaş eye Ndidi replacement

Beşiktaş have begun searching for a possible replacement for Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi amid growing uncertainty over his future at the Turkish club, PUNCH Sports Extra reports. Ndidi only joined the Istanbul giants from Leicester City in August 2025 for a reported fee of €8m, but his impressive performances during the 2025/26 season have already attracted interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League as well as other European sides. The Nigeria international quickly established himself as one of Beşiktaş’ most influential players, making 31 appearances across all competitions and becoming a key figure in the heart of midfield. Despite being under contract until June 2028, reports in Turkey suggest Beşiktaş could be willing to listen to offers for the 29-year-old if their valuation is met. The club are believed to be seeking at least €10m and could demand as much as €15m for the midfielder. While Saudi clubs are reportedly preparing offers for Ndidi, he has also been linked with a return to top-level European football, with Manchester United and Ajax said to be monitoring his situation ahead of the summer transfer window. Related News I miss Super Eagles – Ekong Sadiq ponders retirement after Eagles snub Rudiger extends Real Madrid deal With the possibility of a departure looming, Beşiktaş have already opened talks with Fiorentina over Italian midfielder Rolando Mandragora, according to reports from Turkey. The move is said to be driven by new Beşiktaş manager Vincenzo Italiano, who previously worked with Mandragora at Fiorentina and views the 28-year-old as an ideal replacement should Ndidi leave the club. Mandragora enjoyed an impressive campaign in Serie A last season, contributing seven goals and three assists in 34 league appearances. His experience, tactical discipline and ability to control games from midfield have reportedly made him a priority target for the Turkish side. Beşiktaş are understood to value Mandragora at around €9m and may explore a loan deal with an option to buy if Fiorentina’s demands exceed their transfer budget. Ndidi, who began his European career with Belgian side Genk in 2015 before moving to Leicester City, has spent more than a decade playing in Europe and remains one of Nigeria’s most experienced midfielders. Abiodun Adewale Abiodun, who reports Sports for PUNCH, covers different tiers of the Nigerian football league, the national teams, as well as cricket, in the last six years

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