Saudi’s Club Al-Ittihad Table €10.5m Bid For Super Eagles Captain Ndidi

Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad have reportedly stepped up their interest in Nigeria international Wilfred Ndidi after submitting a formal €10.5 million offer for the Beşiktaş midfielder, according to Turkish sports daily Milliyet.

The proposal could rise to €12.5m if performance-related add-ons are triggered, with the Saudi giants keen to lure the Super Eagles captain and experienced midfielder away from the Turkish Super Lig.

However, Beşiktaş are yet to respond to the offer as the club awaits the assessment of newly appointed head coach Vincenzo Italiano, who is expected to determine whether Ndidi remains part of his plans for the forthcoming season.

The decision could prove crucial for the 28-year-old Nigerian, who only joined the Istanbul giants last summer after leaving Leicester City as a free agent.

Ndidi quickly established himself as an important figure in the Beşiktaş midfield during his first season in Turkey, making 31 Süper Lig appearances and contributing two goals and one assist.

His experience at the highest level, particularly his years in the Premier League with Leicester City, has reportedly made him an attractive target for Al-Ittihad as the Saudi club continues to strengthen its squad.

The proposed move would also offer Ndidi the opportunity to join a league that has continued to attract high-profile players from European football in recent seasons.

For Beşiktaş, however, the situation is less straightforward. Although the €10.5m offer represents a potentially significant return on a player who arrived on a free transfer, the club must first consider Italiano’s tactical requirements before deciding whether to sanction his departure.

Italiano, who has recently taken charge of the Turkish club, is expected to conduct a thorough assessment of his squad before making definitive decisions on players who could form part of his plans for the new campaign.

Ndidi’s ability to operate as a defensive midfielder, his experience and his physical presence could make him a valuable option for the Italian coach.

Nevertheless, Al-Ittihad’s offer places the decision firmly on the table, with the Saudi club potentially prepared to increase its package to €12.5m depending on the agreed performance clauses.

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The Nigeria international’s future is therefore expected to become clearer once Italiano completes his evaluation of the Beşiktaş squad.

For now, Al-Ittihad’s €10.5m proposal remains on the table, while Beşiktaş weigh the financial benefits of a potential sale against the midfielder’s importance to their new coach’s plans.