Wilfred Ndidi has been offered to Manchester United and could plug a defensive midfield gap if fit. For bettors, United’s top-four odds may shorten slightly and transfer markets (Ndidi to United) could see movement — consider backing a January midfield signing or markets on United conceding fewer goals if Ndidi joins.
Ndidi Offered to Manchester United as Midfield Option
Wilfred Ndidi has been offered to Manchester United by his current club Besiktas, with the Nigeria international keen on a return to the Premier League. The 29-year-old joined Besiktas in August and serves as vice-captain, but a swift exit is now on the table after six months in Turkey.
Premier League pedigree and profile
Ndidi arrives with extensive Premier League experience: 220 appearances for Leicester City, seven goals and 14 assists. His profile as a deep-lying, defensive-minded midfielder would address United’s need for steel and shielding in front of the back four.
Deal structure still unclear
There is currently no formal proposal to Besiktas and the structure of any move — permanent transfer or loan — remains uncertain. Manchester United are aware of the player’s desire to return to England and are exploring options as the January window unfolds.
Injury Concerns Could Stall Any Transfer
Ndidi suffered a hamstring strain that curtailed his Africa Cup of Nations campaign and Besiktas confirmed internal bleeding in his left thigh, with treatment underway. No return date has been provided, and the severity of the injury will be a major factor in whether United pursue the move.
Other Midfield Options and Market Movements
Talk of a January swoop for Ruben Neves has been downplayed as his club are in discussions to extend his contract, making a discounted exit less likely. Similarly, moves for other established names are being viewed as unlikely this month, which helps explain why United are revisiting targets already on their radar.
Long-term recruitment and loan-window strategy
Manchester United are using the January window to explore short-term fixes and long-term upgrades. Ownership and recruitment chiefs remain interested in younger midfield talents, with names such as Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba linked as future targets.
Caretaker Boss and Squad Management
Caretaker head coach Michael Carrick is pressing for reinforcements as he aims to steady United’s season and push for a Champions League place. Carrick will also be keen to secure the development path for Kobbie Mainoo, who grew frustrated at limited minutes under previous management and attracted interest from other Premier League clubs last summer.
What a Ndidi signing would mean on the pitch
A fit Ndidi would offer improved ball recovery, defensive cover and experience in high-intensity Premier League battles — traits that could reduce opposition chances and help protect United’s backline. From a tactical perspective, his arrival would likely allow more freedom for creative midfielders ahead of him.
Transfer Outlook
With uncertainty over injury status and deal structure, United appear cautious. Expect monitoring to continue through January, with any move contingent on medical clarity and whether the club prefers a short-term loan or a longer-term commitment.
Manchester United could bring in a Premier League veteran this month with Ruben Neves unlikely to be heading to Old Trafford.
Express
