Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is set to undergo a medical today, Thursday 7th August 2025 ahead of a €9.5 million transfer to Turkish giants Besiktas.
An agreement between Leicester City and Besiktas was reached earlier this week, bringing an end to a long-standing pursuit of the 28-year-old defensive midfielder by the Istanbul-based club.
Ndidi has reportedly agreed to a three-year contract with an option for a fourth, and the final steps of the deal are now underway.
“A mutual agreement between the 28 y/o defensive midfielder and the club has been reached. Contracts are now being checked. Medical is scheduled for Thursday,”
tweeted veteran journalist Florian Plettenberg on Wednesday.
End of an Era at Leicester
Ndidi’s move marks the end of a successful spell at the King Power Stadium, where he has been a mainstay in Leicester’s midfield since joining from Genk in 2017.
Over the course of seven seasons, the Nigerian international made more than 240 appearances, renowned for his ball-winning ability and defensive intelligence.
Now in the final year of his contract, Ndidi opted not to renew following Leicester’s relegation from the Premier League, paving the way for a move abroad.
Last season, he played 30 matches, scoring once and providing five assists, sparking interest from clubs including Everton, Valencia, and Real Betis.
Major Boost for Besiktas and Solskjaer
For Besiktas, the signing is seen as a major coup and a timely reinforcement as the club aims to bounce back from a disappointing fourth-place finish in the Turkish Super Lig last season.
Ndidi will join a squad currently under the guidance of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who was appointed in January 2025 and is attempting to rebuild amid pressure.
The Norwegian’s position is reportedly under scrutiny following a 4-2 defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk in the Europa League second qualifying round first leg.
While speculation around his future continues—with Nuri Sahin and Sergen Yalçın named as possible successors—Ndidi’s arrival will offer much-needed steel and experience in midfield.
Besiktas had made the Nigerian a priority target this summer but initially struggled to meet Leicester’s valuation. Their opening bid of €7m, structured over three years, was rejected, before they returned with an improved and now accepted €9.5m offer.
Next Steps
Ndidi will complete his medical today in Istanbul before putting pen to paper. Barring any last-minute hitches, the official announcement could follow within 24–48 hours.
If made official, the transfer will bring Ndidi’s time in England to a close, opening a new chapter in Turkey as he looks to re-establish himself on the European stage and bolster his form ahead of the 2025 AFCON with Nigeria.