Wilfred Ndidi: Besiktas and Nigeria midfielder linked with Al-Diriyah move

Wilfred Ndidi, the Nigeria and England-eligible midfielder currently at Besiktas, is being linked with a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Diriyah. The 29-year-old defensive midfielder is under contract with the Istanbul club until 30 June 2028, but interest from Saudi Arabia is understood to be intensifying as Al-Diriyah look to add experience to their spine.

Besiktas signed Ndidi from Leicester City on 7 August 2025 for a reported €8m fee, and his current market valuation stands at around €8m. Any negotiations with Al-Diriyah would therefore be expected to involve a significant transfer fee, with Besiktas in a strong position to demand full value given the length of his deal.

Ndidi has established himself as a regular in Turkey’s Super Lig, clocking up 25 league appearances and 2,000 minutes so far, adding two goals and one assist from his holding midfield role. Before his move to Istanbul, he built a substantial Premier League resume at Leicester, making 220 appearances in England’s top flight and playing more than 18,000 minutes.

During his time at Leicester, Ndidi collected notable silverware, including lifting the FA Cup in 2021 as part of the club’s first triumph in the competition. His profile and experience across European and domestic competitions are seen as key attractions for Al-Diriyah as they continue to invest in established players.

For now, Ndidi remains a central figure in Besiktas’ midfield and is tied to the club for another two years, leaving Besiktas with no immediate pressure to sell as speculation over a potential move to Saudi Arabia continues.