Lyon’s interest in Bayern Munich-linked Super Eagles star fizzles out

The Nigeria international was often regarded as one of the best in his position before injuries took their toll on his body

France’s Olympique Lyonnais and German champions Bayern Munich are both eyeing Super Eagles’ midfield maestro, Wilfred Ndidi, Soccernet.ng reports.

However, recent developments reveal a diverging path for these two European giants in their pursuit of the Nigerian sensation.

Wilfred Ndidi’s situation

Following Leicester City’s unfortunate relegation to the Championship last season, the Foxes have been hemorrhaging talent during the summer transfer window.

Notable departures include Daniel Amartey, Ayoze Perez, Youri Tielemans, James Maddison, and Jonny Evans, with others like Boubakary Soumaré and Patson Daka potentially following suit before the August 31 transfer deadline.

Much like his compatriot, Kelechi Iheanacho, Ndidi is willing to remain with the Foxes even in the Championship. 

Nevertheless, the 26-year-old defensive midfield stalwart, boasting an impressive 236 appearances and 11 goals for Leicester, currently under contract until June 2024, has not gone unnoticed by foreign suitors.

Lyon’s interest cools

Olympique Lyonnais initially expressed a keen interest in securing Ndidi’s services.

According to Footmercato, Lyon’s chief scout Matthieu Louis-Jean ventured to Leicester to gauge the feasibility of a potential deal.

However, the Nigerian international, with 51 caps to his name, is unavailable for loan, per Leicester City’s stance.

The Foxes are determined to only part ways with Ndidi on a permanent basis.

Furthermore, Ndidi’s annual salary, eclipsing €3 million, lies beyond Lyon’s financial grasp. Consequently, OL has opted to withdraw from further negotiations, effectively ending their pursuit.

Bayern Munich remain resolute

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich, under the leadership of manager Thomas Tuchel, remain steadfast in their quest to bolster its midfield.

Ex-Chelsea boss Tuchel is advocating for a new defensive midfielder with the intent of freeing Joshua Kimmich from that role.

Within this context, Wilfred Ndidi emerges as a prime candidate, says the Daily Mail. 

Should Tuchel succeed in his pursuit, Bayern Munich could make a decisive move for the Nigerian dynamo.

While Ndidi harbours a preference to stay in England, the allure of donning the colours of the historic German juggernaut might prove too enticing to resist.

Bayern have already invested significantly in the transfer market, securing Harry Kane from Tottenham Hotspur for a staggering €100 million.

This financial outlay, however, is unlikely to deter them from pursuing Ndidi, whose market value currently hovers around €25 million.