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Wilfred Ndidi, the 28-year-old Nigerian international and pivotal midfielder for Leicester City, has become a focal point in the current transfer market, drawing significant interest from French Ligue 1 club AS Monaco and Spain’s Atlético Madrid.
Monaco’s Pursuit of Ndidi
AS Monaco has initiated discussions to acquire Ndidi, aiming to strengthen their midfield with his extensive Premier League experience. The French club is reportedly considering a six-month loan deal with an option to purchase. However, negotiations may face challenges, as Leicester City is reportedly reluctant to agree to such an arrangement.
Atlético Madrid’s Interest
In addition to Monaco, Atlético Madrid, under the guidance of manager Diego Simeone, has expressed interest in bolstering their midfield by potentially bringing Ndidi into their squad. The Spanish club has made inquiries regarding his availability, further intensifying speculation about his future at Leicester City.
Ndidi’s Tenure at Leicester City
Since joining Leicester City from KRC Genk in 2017, Ndidi has been a cornerstone of the team’s midfield, known for his defensive prowess and consistency. He has made 290 appearances for the Foxes, contributing significantly to their successes, including winning the Emirates FA Cup and the FA Community Shield.
This season, Ndidi has featured in 15 Premier League matches, demonstrating his ongoing importance to the squad. However, a hamstring injury sustained in December 2024 has sidelined him, during which time Leicester has struggled, suffering seven defeats in their last eight matches across all competitions.
Leicester City’s Stance
Leicester City’s manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, who took over in late November 2024, is reportedly keen to retain Ndidi, especially as the team battles to improve its standing in the Premier League. The club’s reluctance to part with one of its key players could pose a significant hurdle for interested clubs.
Ndidi’s Perspective
Despite the transfer speculations, Ndidi has publicly expressed support for van Nistelrooy, stating, “He’s an amazing manager with an amazing personality who is trying to put the team together.” He remains optimistic about Leicester’s prospects, noting, “Things are not going the right way now, but we have the quality to get there with time.”
Potential Move and Historical Context
If Ndidi were to join AS Monaco, he would follow in the footsteps of fellow Nigerian Victor Ikpeba, who became a club legend during his time there, earning the nickname “The Prince of Monaco” and winning the 1997 African Footballer of the Year award. Ndidi would become the eighth Nigerian to don Monaco’s colors, joining the ranks of Ikpeba, Lukman Haruna, Elderson Echiejile, Rabiu Afolabi, Sani Kaita, Henry Onyekuru, and George Ilenikhena.
