After being priced out of moves for Baleba and Anderson, Michael Carrick’s side identifies the former Leicester star as the ideal anchor for their 2026/27 midfield.
Manchester United has officially begun its post-Casemiro recruitment drive. With the Brazilian veteran set to depart Old Trafford at the end of the season, the Red Devils have identified Wilfried Ndidi as a primary target to provide much-needed stability to their midfield.
According to journalist Alan Myers and supported by updates from Fabrizio Romano, Ndidi has emerged as a favorite for the board. After encountering “prohibitive” price tags for younger targets like Carlos Baleba and Elliot Anderson, United views the Nigerian international as a high-value, low-risk alternative.
From Besiktas back to the Big Time?
Currently playing for Besiktas, Ndidi has only been in Turkey for six months following a legendary decade-long stint at Leicester City. Despite his short stay in Istanbul, the midfielder is reportedly “eager” to return to English football, viewing his time in the Süper Lig as a temporary chapter.
However, a January move is off the table:
- Besiktas’ Stance: The Turkish giants are unwilling to sell their midfield general mid-season, citing the difficulty of finding a replacement.
- United’s Plan: The club is prepared to wait until the summer window to secure a permanent deal.
The “Carrick Approval”
The interest in Ndidi is reportedly backed by manager Michael Carrick. Having played the same role at an elite level, Carrick values Ndidi’s defensive discipline, tackling ability, and aerial presence qualities that made him a standout performer in the Premier League for years.
While agents have already offered the player to the club, negotiations are still in the “early stages.” Nonetheless, with Ndidi keen on the move and United needing a proven replacement for Casemiro, this transfer is shaping up to be one of the most logical deals of the summer.
James Horan is a football writer focused on the Premier League transfer market, covering confirmed signings, transfer rumors, and club strategies during the transfer windows.
