Nigerian international Wilfred Ndidi has completed his move from Leicester City to Besiktas, becoming the sixth Nigerian to represent the Istanbul club, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles midfielder follows in the footsteps of Emmanuel Babayaro, Daniel Amokachi, Christopher Ohen, Ike Shorunmu, and Michael Eneramo.
Besiktas confirmed the transfer in a statement to Turkey’s Public Disclosure Platform (KAP), revealing they have agreed a three-year contract with an option for a further season. The Turkish side will pay Leicester a fee of €8 million.
Ndidi, 28, arrived in Istanbul on Thursday to finalise the deal after passing his medical. The Nigeria international spent seven and a half years at Leicester, where he won the FA Cup, Community Shield, and played a key role in their return to the Premier League in 2023-24, before their relegation last season.
Ndidi snubbed offers from Real Betis and Valencia to move to the Turkish Super Lig.
Speaking after signing, Ndidi expressed his excitement at joining the Black Eagles.
“It’s really amazing. Joining Besiktas is a great feeling,” he said. “It feels very warm and welcoming. Before I put the shirt on, I kissed the badge — it shows my love.”
Besiktas are currently competing in the Europa Conference League qualifiers, having beaten St Patrick’s Athletic 4-1 in the first leg on Thursday, with Tammy Abraham netting a first-half hat-trick.
Ndidi will look to feature in the return leg.