OGUN, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Manchester United reportedly turned down a clear opportunity to bolster their midfield during the January transfer window, opting against a deal for Nigeria international Wilfred Ndidi.
Ndidi, who joined Beşiktaş last summer after nine successful years at Leicester City, had emerged as a potential short-term solution to United’s midfield concerns.
The Nigerian international’s name was proposed during the winter window, with former United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjær understood to have recommended the midfielder following their time working together in Turkey.
Ndidi was reportedly keen on a move to Old Trafford, even if it meant cutting short his stay in Istanbul.
However, despite visible gaps in midfield depth, United swiftly dismissed the proposal.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that the approach was made and quickly rejected, revealing on the Here We Go podcast: “I can tell you that Wilfred Ndidi, former midfielder from Leicester, now at Beşiktaş, was offered as an opportunity to Man United.”
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“A low-cost opportunity. The player was very keen on the move, but Man United decided immediately not to proceed.
“They had the chance to do something like a low-cost opportunity, but they decided against it.”
United had also been linked with Ndidi during the summer of 2025, when a relegation clause made him available for £9.5m following Leicester City’s drop from the Premier League. However, no deal materialised at the time.
It could be recall that Beşiktaş considered selling Ndidi just six months after he joined the club, but rejected a loan offer from Ajax, insisting on a permanent transfer.
Ndidi joined the Turkish giants on a three-year deal last summer for a reported €9.5m fee and has since been named the club’s vice-captain.
The 29-year-old recently captained Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which concluded earlier this year.
Although his chances of returning to the Premier League appear to have faded for now, Ndidi remains focused on helping his Turkish club. He has made 15 league appearances for Beşiktaş this season, scoring one goal.
He also suffered the loss of his father about a week ago but has continued to turn out for his club, featuring in two matches since the bereavement.