Beşiktaş eye Ndidi replacement

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Beşiktaş have begun searching for a possible replacement for Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi amid growing uncertainty over his future at the Turkish club, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

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Ndidi only joined the Istanbul giants from Leicester City in August 2025 for a reported fee of €8m, but his impressive performances during the 2025/26 season have already attracted interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League as well as other European sides.

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The Nigeria international quickly established himself as one of Beşiktaş’ most influential players, making 31 appearances across all competitions and becoming a key figure in the heart of midfield.

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Despite being under contract until June 2028, reports in Turkey suggest Beşiktaş could be willing to listen to offers for the 29-year-old if their valuation is met. The club are believed to be seeking at least €10m and could demand as much as €15m for the midfielder.

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While Saudi clubs are reportedly preparing offers for Ndidi, he has also been linked with a return to top-level European football, with Manchester United and Ajax said to be monitoring his situation ahead of the summer transfer window.

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With the possibility of a departure looming, Beşiktaş have already opened talks with Fiorentina over Italian midfielder Rolando Mandragora, according to reports from Turkey.

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The move is said to be driven by new Beşiktaş manager Vincenzo Italiano, who previously worked with Mandragora at Fiorentina and views the 28-year-old as an ideal replacement should Ndidi leave the club.

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Mandragora enjoyed an impressive campaign in Serie A last season, contributing seven goals and three assists in 34 league appearances. His experience, tactical discipline and ability to control games from midfield have reportedly made him a priority target for the Turkish side.

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Beşiktaş are understood to value Mandragora at around €9m and may explore a loan deal with an option to buy if Fiorentina’s demands exceed their transfer budget.

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Ndidi, who began his European career with Belgian side Genk in 2015 before moving to Leicester City, has spent more than a decade playing in Europe and remains one of Nigeria’s most experienced midfielders.

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