Manchester United are running out of time to strengthen their midfield for Michael Carrick in January.
On Thursday, United announced their decision to part ways with Casemiro at the end of the season. The Brazilian was a mainstay under both Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim and is expected to play an influential role under Carrick as well.
United would ideally like to replace the 33-year-old in the summer. However, given his age and Manuel Ugarte’s form, the interim manager could do with a new midfielder mid-season.
Manchester United keen on Wilfred Ndidi
Recently, Manchester United have been strongly linked with Wilfred Ndidi, who has emerged as a viable January target.
The 29-year-old midfielder, who captains Besiktas in Turkey, has a lot of Premier League experience under his belt.
The former Leicester City star, who often drew comparisons to club legend N’Golo Kanté during his time at King Power Stadium, offers strong tackling and exceptional duel-winning ability.
According to Turkish journalist Mustafa Karataş (via Sport Witness), United have three midfield targets on their list this month and they have enquired about the terms of a deal for the Nigeria international.
Manchester United want to sign Ndidi on loan
It is claimed that United are considering making a £12 million offer “with a purchase option” for Ndidi, who joined the Turkish giants last summer.
It is suggested that the Mancunians’ intention is to sign the combative midfielder on an initial loan deal.
Wilfred Ndidi’s Super Lig stats: 2025/26 Season
Search:
Appearances
14
Minutes per game 85
Touches 60.6
Key passes 0.5
Accurate passes 38.5
Tackles 2.7
Total goal contribution 1
Speaking on his YouTube channel, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that Ndidi would be “keen on returning” to England and has been offered to United.
The club’s priority target for midfield is Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson.
United intend to make a strong push for his signature in the summer, but they face competition from Chelsea, Manchester City and Bayern Munich.
