Transfer imminent: Nigeria's top tackler in PL history on the brink of leaving Leicester City

Besiktas are on the brink of finalizing a deal to sign Nigerian's top tackler in Premier League history, Wilfred Ndidi from Leicester City.

According to the official website of the Premier League, no Nigerian player has recorded more tackles in the competition's history than Ndidi, who has amassed a total of 779 tackles over seven and a half seasons.

Ndidi is the top-tackling Nigerian, surpassing Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel, who recorded 539 during his time in England. 

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed last night that only one final detail remains before the transfer is completed. 

The Turkish Super Lig side have been in negotiations for weeks, and the move now appears imminent, bringing an end to a long-running saga surrounding the 28-year-old midfielder.

Ndidi, who signed a contract extension with Leicester City last summer, reportedly has a €9 million release clause in his deal—activated after the club’s relegation from the Premier League to the Championship. 

The clause paved the way for Besiktas to accelerate talks. Ndidi is expected to sign a three-year deal with the option of a fourth year. He is scheduled to arrive in Istanbul soon for medicals and to finalize personal terms.

Since joining Leicester from Belgian club Genk in 2017, Ndidi has made over 303 appearances and played a key role in the club’s success, including their historic 2021 FA Cup victory and Community Shield win. 

His robust midfield displays have made him a key figure for both club and country.

Despite reported interest from Juventus and Fenerbahce, Besiktas have taken the lead, driven in part by the influence of new manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. 

The Norwegian coach is said to have been instrumental in convincing Ndidi to make the switch to Turkey, as Besiktas look to reinforce their midfield after an early exit from the UEFA Europa League.

Ndidi’s move represents a new chapter in his career and a major boost for Besiktas’ rebuilding plans. 

With personal terms nearly agreed, fans in Istanbul are eagerly awaiting the arrival of a player whose defensive strength and top-flight experience could prove decisive this season.

Wale Adejumo

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com