Manchester United are eyeing a bargain deal for a Premier League veteran this summer even though it won’t be the most exciting deal.
Manchester United and Everton are among the clubs showing renewed interest in Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who could be available for just £9 million following the Foxes’ relegation from the Premier League.
The Nigerian international, 28, signed a three-year contract extension with Leicester last summer after helping them win the Championship.
However, that deal included a £9m release clause in the event of relegation, which has now been triggered following Leicester’s drop to the second tier.
Ndidi has made 220 appearances in the Premier League including 28 in last season’s campaign and was a key member of the Foxes 2020/21 FA Cup winning side.
United’s interest in Ndidi clarified
Speaking on The United Stand, transfer expert Ben Jacobs offered insight into United’s thinking in regard to this potential signing. While Ndidi may not top their shortlist, his low cost makes him an attractive fallback option.
“This is where the interest, for example, even though it won’t excite Manchester United fans, in Wilfred Ndidi comes in,” the journalist explained.
“Not because he’s the perfect profile, but he’s the right kind of price, and he still allows you to put budget towards the number nine.”
Jacobs also stressed that United’s interest stems from financial strategy rather than tactical preference.
He continued: “I don’t sense that Ndidi is like the leading choice… But if they realise they don’t have £30 to 60 million on a midfielder, then you start looking at more budget options.”
Ndidi deal complicated by Saudi interest
Ndidi’s situation is further complicated by interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League, who could offer more lucrative personal terms. However, the midfielder’s Premier League experience and low release clause fee continue to make him a compelling target in England.
For those at Old Trafford, the Leicester midfielder, who currently earns £75,000-per-week at the King Power Stadium, represents a potential depth signing in the engine room rather than a transformative addition.
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United will most likely be prioritising a new striker and potentially a central defender, Ndidi could be brought in to add squad depth especially as Casemiro isn’t getting any younger.
While fans may not be thrilled, Ndidi’s experience, affordability, and versatility could make him a shrewd piece of business especially if United’s summer budget becomes stretched.
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