Newcastle United make first move to sign Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi

Newcastle United have expressed an interest in signing Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who is out of contract at the end of the season.

Upon relegation from the Premier League last year, the Nigerian international, 27, stayed put at Leicester City despite interest from several clubs. The Foxes have enjoyed a fantastic season in the Championship under Enzo Maresca, and Wilfried Ndidi has been among their best players. The defensive midfielder has played a key role behind Leicester City’s automatic promotion to the Premier League at the first time of asking, registering four goals and five assists in 30 league appearances.

However, he is set to leave the King Power Stadium upon the expiry of his contract in June and has instantly become a highly sought-after commodity, with Brentford, Aston Villa, West Ham United and Fulham all keen. Newcastle United are also reportedly eyeing a deal for the player soon to become a free agent.

A big summer transfer window coming up for Newcastle United

Newcastle United surprised many by qualifying for the Champions League last season and finishing in the Premier League’s top four. Since then, however, the Toon Army have endured a hugely frustrating campaign full of injuries and off-field issues. To overcome a difficult campaign, they are determined to make the most of the upcoming summer transfer window.

That said, Newcastle United have already been linked with Bournemouth’s Lloyd Kelly and Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo in two deals to strengthen their squad. Without Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles at the start of the 2024/25 campaign, Eddie Howe must address Newcastle’s defence as a priority after both suffered unfortunate ACL injuries. Away from their defence, meanwhile, the club could also do with midfield reinforcements.

Wilfred Ndidi on Newcastle United’s radar

Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi has emerged as a potential target for the Magpies. A player with bags of Premier League experience, the 27-year-old is the sort of player who would be a good fit in Eddie Howe’s midfield unit. He is coming off the back of a strong campaign in the Championship and could make an instant impact at St James’ Park if signed.

A defensive midfielder by trade, Ndidi’s signing would allow Bruno Guimaraes to operate in an advanced role and become more influential in the final third. The Nigerian international’s reading of the game of defensive attributes would also help him add a layer of protection to the Newcastle backline that has lacked the solidity of last season.

At 27, the Leicester City star would want to spend the best years of his career playing for a prestigious club in the Premier League or other European leagues. As for Newcastle, they could hugely benefit from Ndidi’s qualities and top-flight experience in the middle of the park if they can agree on what will be a bargain deal this summer.