Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi was linked with a January transfer to Manchester United, but the proposed move failed to materialise after the Premier League club opted not to pursue the deal. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that United were offered the chance to sign the midfielder but decided against it.
Despite Ndidi’s willingness to return to English football from Turkish side Beşiktaş, the Red Devils chose not to act on the low cost opportunity during the winter window and instead focused on longer term plans for their midfield.
Fabrizio Romano revealed on the “Here We Go” podcast that Manchester United were presented with an opportunity to bring Ndidi in as a budget-friendly addition in January. The Nigerian-born midfielder, who previously made over 300 Premier League appearances for Leicester City, was reportedly interested in a move back to England.
However, United’s hierarchy chose not to progress the deal effectively turning down an immediate option that could have shored up their central midfield without significant financial outlay.
Reports suggest that one key reason behind the decision was Manchester United’s broader transfer strategy. The club appears to be targeting a more substantial midfield overhaul during the summer window rather than making a short-term addition in January.
United’s recruitment plans reportedly include more expensive potential targets such as Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton, with the club prioritising long term signings that align with its vision for the future rather than mid-season fixes.
Editorial
Wilfred Ndidi’s near-move to Manchester United highlights the often complex nature of transfer negotiations. On paper, adding a seasoned midfielder with extensive Premier League experience and at relatively low cost would seem to fit United’s needs, especially given their ongoing midfield concerns this season.
But football transfers are not just about opportunity they are closely tied to club strategy, budget planning and long-term squad building. United’s decision to pass on Ndidi suggests a belief that short term solutions might not align with their ambitions for a comprehensive midfield rebuild. Whether that long term focus pays off remains to be seen, but for Ndidi it meant missing a chance to make a high profile return to English football.
Did You Know?
- Wilfred Ndidi was offered to Manchester United as a potential January signing but United declined to pursue the deal.
- Ndidi is the captain of the Super Eagles and currently plays for Turkish side Beşiktaş.
- He spent nine seasons at Leicester City, making over 300 Premier League appearances before leaving in 2025.
- Manchester United reportedly prefers to focus on high-profile midfield reinforcements in the summer transfer window.
- Fabrizio Romano first disclosed the details of the transfer opportunity on the “Here We Go” podcast.
