Super Eagles transfer: Why Beşiktaş rejected Saudi Arabia bids for Wilfred Ndidi

Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi could still be on the payroll of Besiktas by the start of next season despite multiple links pointing to a likely Istanbul exit, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Nigeria international is attracting interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, but the Turkish club has made it clear that they are not ready to sell him at a low price.

Ndidi joined Beşiktaş from Leicester City last summer in a deal worth €8 million. After only one season in Istanbul, several clubs from the Middle East have already made approaches for the experienced midfielder. However, the first offers received by the Turkish giants were immediately rejected because they did not match the club’s valuation.

Super Eagles and Besiktas star Wilfred Ndidi. Photo by Seskimphoto /IMAGO

According to reports from Turkish media, Beşiktaş will not consider any bid below the €8 million they paid for the Nigerian international, which is about ₦12.6 billion at current exchange rates. The club do not want to lose money on a player they signed just a year ago.

The 29-year-old enjoyed a busy first season in Turkey. He made 25 appearances in the Turkish Super Lig, scoring two goals and providing one assist. Ndidi also featured in the Turkish Cup and the UEFA Conference League qualifying rounds, playing six matches and recording 540 minutes across those competitions.

His current contract with Beşiktaş runs until June 2028, while the agreement also includes an option to extend it by another year. That long-term contract has given the club confidence to remain patient instead of rushing into a sale.

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle and captain Wilfred Ndidi. Copyright: xshengolpixsxIMAGO

Super Eagles’ Ndidi: Why Beşiktaş are delaying any Saudi Arabia transfer

The biggest reason Beşiktaş have not approved a move is financial. Club officials believe Wilfred Ndidi is still worth at least the exact millions they invested in him, so they are unwilling to accept offers below that figure. They want any buying club to meet their asking price before serious negotiations can begin.

Another important factor is Ndidi’s own preference. Reports in Turkey suggest the Super Eagles midfielder has not made a final decision about his future. While clubs from Saudi Arabia and the UAE are interested, Europe remains an attractive destination for the former Leicester City star if he decides to leave Beşiktaş.

Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi. Copyright: xKatarzynaxPlewczynskax IMAGO

The club’s management are therefore waiting to see whether a stronger European offer arrives before making any decision. Selling him to the Middle East now could prevent them from receiving a better proposal from another European side later in the transfer window.

There is also uncertainty over whether Ndidi wants to remain at Beşiktaş. Reports indicate he has not insisted on staying, but he has also not pushed for an immediate exit. That situation means the club are carefully planning their transfer strategy rather than making a quick decision.

Beşiktaş are holding firm at the moment. Unless a club matches their valuation of the former Genk ace and presents terms that satisfy both the player and the Turkish side, Wilfred Ndidi is expected to remain in Istanbul as preparations continue for the new season.

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Imhonlamhen

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Eronmhonsele Imhonlamhen is a sports writer covering Nigeria, with 10+ years in sports media and a Reuters Digital Journalism certification. A bettor for over 15 years, he specialises in football odds and responsible gambling, and has used operators including Bet9ja, SportyBet, Nairabet and BetKing.