Turkish giants Fenerbahce have taken a major step towards beating other rivals to the signing of Nigerian international midfielder Wilfred Ndidi.
Reports from Turkey reveal that Fenerbahce have initiated discussions over a potential deal for the Leicester City and Super Eagles midfielder.
This development comes as the Super Eagles star appears set to leave Leicester City following the Foxes’ relegation to the Championship.
Ndidi, 28, has expressed reluctance to spend another season in the English second tier and could be on his way out of the King Power Stadium despite having a contract that runs until 2027.
Talks between Fenerbahce and Ndidi’s representatives are being spearheaded by licensed agent, Muzzi Özcan, with club president Ali Koç reportedly playing a hands-on role in the negotiations, according to Fotomac.
Per the reports, the Istanbul-based side has made Ndidi a priority signing, after previously showing interest in Tottenham’s Yves Bissouma.
While no official fee has been confirmed, Leicester are believed to be holding out for around €11 million for the Nigerian international, who joined them from Belgian club Genk in January 2017 for €17.6 million.
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Fenerbahce are not the only club looking to make a swoop for Ndidi, though, as Juventus, Manchester United and Everton have previously been credited with interest in the combative midfielder.
German journalist Florian Plettenberg (via GFNG) have also revealed that clubs in the Bundesliga are also monitoring Ndidi’s situation.
However, it is Fenerbahce, coached by former Chelsea boss José Mourinho, who have moved quickly to open formal negotiations.
A trusted figure in midfield, Ndidi earned a reputation in the Premier League as one of the most consistent defensive midfielders.
His peak market value once soared to €60 million, reflecting his immense influence at Leicester, where he made over 220 top-flight appearances and played Champions League football following their historic 2016 title win.
Now seeking a new chapter in his career, a move to Turkey could provide the ideal platform for Ndidi to regain momentum and compete at a high level once more.
With Fenerbahce pushing hard to reclaim domestic dominance and return to the Champions League, Ndidi’s ball-winning ability and tactical discipline could make him a valuable addition to Mourinho’s squad.