Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi makes transfer U-turn despite Everton interest
Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is ready to sign a new contract with the Foxes despite serious interest from Everton.
According to BBC journalist Nizaar Kinsella, the 27-year-old will extend his stay at the King Power Stadium unless interested clubs like Everton hijack the deal at the last minute.
Ndidi was a mainstay in the Leicester midfield last season under manager Enzo Maresca. He featured 36 times across all competitions, scoring six times and providing six assists.
The Nigeria international played a key role in Leicester’s Championship-winning campaign, bagging four goals and five assists in 32 league appearances.
His contract at the King Power Stadium expired last month, and the Championship winner is now a free agent, although clubs across Europe have expressed an interest in signing him.
Everton and Ligue 1 giants Olympique Marseille have reportedly held talks to sign Ndidi, but it appears the Nigerian has decided to continue his adventure with Leicester.
The Toffees are in the market for midfield reinforcements, especially amid uncertainty surrounding Amadou Onana’s long-term future at the club.
The Belgium international is subject to interest from several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United, and Newcastle United.
While the rumours surrounding his potential exit have cooled in recent weeks, there’s a decent chance one of those clubs would reignite their interest in the midfielder this summer.
Ndidi is one of several players on Everton’s extensive shortlist, but the former KRC Genk star is poised to rejoin Leicester unless the Toffees launch a last-gasp attempt to lure him to Merseyside.
Meanwhile, Everton are facing a fight to keep coveted centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite beyond this summer.
After an exceptional 2023/24 campaign, the England international has become a hot commodity, with Man United and Manchester City among those interested in signing him.
Everton have already turned down two bids from Man United and are holding out for at least £70 million to sell their prized asset.
The Red Devils are reportedly preparing a third bid, but Everton are unlikely to soften their stance on the player’s valuation, given that he still has three years left on his contract.