Ndidi ends 8-year association with Leicester as Besiktas confirm midfielder's capture

Nigerian international Wilfred Ndidi has completed a permanent move from Leicester City to Turkish Super Lig side Beşiktaş in an €8 million deal, bringing an end to his eight-year stay at the King Power Stadium. 

The 28-year-old underwent a medical in Istanbul before signing a three-year contract with an option for a fourth season, Besiktas announced through the official website on Friday afternoon.

Ndidi, widely regarded as one of the most reliable defensive midfielders in Europe during his peak years, joined Leicester from Belgian outfit KRC Genk in January 2017.

Over the course of eight and a half seasons, he made 303 appearances across all competitions, scoring 18 goals and providing 22 assists. 

His contributions were pivotal in Leicester’s Emirates FA Cup triumph in 2021, FA Community Shield victory later that year, and their Sky Bet Championship title in the 2023/24 campaign.

Following Leicester’s relegation to the Championship in 2023 and a subsequent return to the Premier League a year later, Ndidi’s future remained uncertain. 

With his contract set to expire in 2027, he opted not to extend his stay, activating a release clause that opened the door for a move abroad.

Beşiktaş, managed by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, secured his signature despite strong interest from top European clubs. 

The Black Eagles view Ndidi as a key figure in their push to reclaim the Süper Lig title, last won in 2021.

The move marks a significant step in Beşiktaş’s squad rebuild, with Ndidi expected to bring defensive stability, ball-winning ability, and leadership to the midfield as the club targets both domestic silverware and progress in European competition.

Wale Adejumo

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