Wilfred Ndidi: Breaking down Al-Ittihad’s €12.5 million offer for Super Eagles star

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Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has emerged as a consistent fixture in Besiktas’ transfer headlines this summer, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 29-year-old defensive midfielder joined the Turkish giants from Leicester City last summer and quickly cemented his place in the starting lineup. Last season, he featured in 31 games across all competitions, contributing two goals and one assist.

Ndidi was brought in to provide defensive stability for Besiktas and act as a reliable shield in front of the backline.

Fred back of Fenerbahce and Wilfred Ndidi 4 of Besiktas during the Trendyol Turkish Süper League match between Fenerbahce SK and Besiktas JK at Chobani Stadium on April 5, 2026

However, his efforts were not enough to secure a title challenge, as the club finished fourth in the Super Lig behind Galatasaray, Fenerbahce, and Trabzonspor.

Besiktas are now looking to rebuild, offload fringe players, and bring in new talent to suit incoming coach Vincenzo Italiano, leaving Ndidi’s future at the club uncertain.

Although he has been linked with moves to Saudi Arabia throughout the summer without specific suitors being named, a concrete development has finally emerged.

Wilfred Ndidi of Besiktas JK controls the ball during the Trendyol Super Lig match between Besiktas JK and Kasimpasa SK at Tupras Stadium on March 19, 2026

Former league champions Al-Ittihad have reportedly made an official offer for his services.

Breakdown of Al-Ittihad’s Offer for Wilfred Ndidi

According to Turkish outlet NTV Spor, Al-Ittihad have tabled a bid of €10.5 million plus €2 million in add-ons for Ndidi.

The Saudi Pro League club have yet to adequately replace N’Golo Kanté, who departed for Fenerbahce in January, and Ndidi fits the profile of an ideal successor to the Frenchman.

At 29, Ndidi still has several prime years ahead of him and brings a wealth of top-flight experience.

Financially, the deal represents a smart investment for Al-Ittihad; Ndidi does not command exorbitant wages, and Besiktas appear willing to negotiate for an offer in the region of €8 million.

With Ndidi turning 30 in December, he is entering a phase of his career where lucrative, long-term contracts become increasingly appealing. Should Al-Ittihad present a financially rewarding package, the Nigerian international is likely to be open to the move.

Furthermore, a switch to Saudi Arabia is unlikely to jeopardize his standing with the Super Eagles. As team captain and undisputed first-choice defensive midfielder, his position remains secure, particularly given that alternative options in the national team pool have yet to surpass his output.

For now, Ndidi has not publicly expressed a desire to leave Istanbul, leaving it to be seen whether the transfer will materialize.