Super Eagles: ‘Happy’ ex-Leicester star cools talk of Super Lig exit

Super Eagles captain Wilfried Ndidi could be set to remain at Turkish side Besiktas ahead of next season despite reports linking him with an exit this summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 29-year-old midfielder has been the subject of intense transfer speculation just a year after joining the Turkish giants, with several clubs showing interest in signing him during the current transfer window.

Ndidi joined Besiktas last summer after ending his nine-year spell with Leicester City. He quickly established himself as an important player in the squad, making 31 appearances across all competitions, including 25 in the Super Lig.

His influence also grew off the pitch as he became one of the club's leaders and was handed the captain's armband on several occasions last season.

However, the departure of head coach Sergen Yalcin and the arrival of Vincenzo Italiano raised questions over Ndidi's future at the club, with reports that the changes could open the door for the Super Eagles midfielder to leave this summer.

With the new Turkish season set to begin this weekend, it appears Ndidi has made his position clear.

Ndidi: Super Eagles captain set for Besiktas stay

According to Footy-Africa, Ndidi is expected to remain at Besiktas for at least the 2026-27 season after a source close to the Super Eagles captain revealed that he intends to continue with the club.

It was confirmed that Ndidi has reaffirmed his decision to stay and has not pushed for a move away from Besiktas despite the interest he has attracted this summer and his decision comes at a time when a number of clubs have explored the possibility of signing him.

Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad were among the clubs showing strong interest in Ndidi after missing out on another Nigerian midfielder, Raphael Onyedika, who instead completed a move to Eintracht Frankfurt.

With Al Ittihad looking for a replacement for Brazilian veteran Fabinho, Ndidi emerged as an alternative target. His decision to remain in Turkey, however, represents a major setback for their pursuit.

Manchester United had also been linked with the Nigerian midfield maestro as a possible replacement for Casemiro, who left the club at the end of last season.

The Red Devils had been keen on Ndidi due to his experience, defensive qualities, leadership and Premier League experience. However, their interest has cooled in recent weeks.

Newly promoted Saudi Pro League club Al Diriyah had also explored a move for the midfielder as they prepare for their first season in the top flight and look to build a squad capable of avoiding an immediate return to the second tier.

Despite the growing interest, Ndidi's current preference appears to be to remain at Besiktas. There could still be another twist because the final decision ultimately rests with the Turkish club. 

Besiktas will have to decide whether to keep the midfielder as they look to challenge for trophies next season or listen to offers for him before the transfer window closes.

For now, Ndidi remains a Besiktas player and is expected to continue with the club into the new season. The Super Eagles captain is also in contention to feature when Besiktas begin their 2026-27 Super Lig campaign against Eyupspor on Sunday, although his situation could still change before the transfer window closes.