Manchester United turned down the chance to sign Nigeria captain Wilfred Ndidi during the winter transfer window, despite the midfielder being made available in what was described as a low-cost opportunity.
The 28-year-old, currently playing for Turkish side Besiktas, had been linked with a return to the Premier League just months after leaving Leicester City, where he spent nine years.
Old Trafford emerged as a potential destination, but the move did not progress beyond early discussions.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that the Red Devils were approached about Ndidi but chose not to pursue the deal.
Speaking on his Here We Go podcast, Romano confirmed that the midfielder was open to the move but that the club quickly dismissed the option.
“I can tell you that Wilfried Ndidi, former Leicester midfielder who now plays for Besiktas, has been offered an opportunity by Manchester United.”
“It was a low-cost opportunity; the player was very interested in the transfer, but Manchester United immediately decided not to pursue it.”
“They had the opportunity to seize a low-cost opportunity, but they refused.”
Ndidi joined Besiktas last summer after Leicester City’s relegation from the Premier League brought an end to his long stay in English football.
During his time at Leicester, he was a key figure in midfield, earning a reputation for his ball-winning ability and consistency at the highest level.
The prospect of a return to England sparked speculation during the winter window, particularly as Manchester United continue to assess options in midfield.
However, Romano’s comments suggest the club’s recruitment plans did not align with a move for the Nigerian international, regardless of the financial appeal of the deal.
For Ndidi, the decision represents a missed opportunity to re-establish himself in the Premier League and compete at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
While he remains settled in Turkey, the rejection highlights the challenges players face when attempting to engineer a swift return to England’s top flight.
Manchester United’s stance also underlines a broader approach to transfers, with the club appearing unwilling to act on short-term or opportunistic deals during the window.
As attention now turns to future recruitment periods, Ndidi’s name is likely to fade from Old Trafford discussions, at least for the foreseeable future.
