Ndidi: Real Betis bid stalls Besiktas move as Nigerian weighs options
Wilfred Ndidi’s long-anticipated move to Besiktas has hit a dramatic twist, with Spanish side Real Betis launching a late bid to hijack the deal.
The Super Eagles midfielder had agreed personal terms with Besiktas on a three-year contract with an option for a fourth, following Leicester City’s acceptance of a €9.5 million offer. Ndidi was expected to fly to Istanbul this week for medicals and an official unveiling.
However, according to top Turkish journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu and Spanish outlet AS, Real Betis have entered the race, identifying Ndidi as a replacement for Johnny Cardoso. While the La Liga club has yet to match Leicester’s valuation, their interest has caused Ndidi to pause proceedings.
Sources close to the player say he is intrigued by the opportunity to play in Spain under Manuel Pellegrini, and has requested additional time to weigh his options. Meanwhile, Besiktas remain confident, having already reached agreements with both Leicester and Ndidi.
The 28-year-old has played 303 matches for Leicester since joining in 2017, scoring 18 goals and providing 22 assists. He featured in 30 games last season, contributing one goal and five assists as the Foxes secured promotion back to the Premier League.
Besiktas, managed by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, view Ndidi as a direct replacement for Gedson Fernandes and a key piece in their midfield rebuild. Club officials are optimistic the deal will be finalized before the weekend.
