Ndidi becomes free agent as Celtic confirms interest

Glasgow Celtic have the chance to act on their long-time interest in former Leicester City midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, as the Nigerian has become a free agent this summer.

Back in 2021, Ndidi was linked with some of the biggest clubs in Europe on the back of his standout performances for the Foxes in the Premier League and was believed to be valued by Leicester at £52m.

Now, after a season in the Championship, the Nigerian midfielder is in search of a new club as he departed the Foxes following the conclusion of his contract.

Reuniting with his old manager in Glasgow is one path that Ndidi could take, with the 27-year-old attracting interest from Celtic as Brendan Rodgers rejoined the club last summer.

Ndidi was signed by Leicester in 2017 from Belgian side Genk and played under the current Celtic boss for four years, enjoying FA Cup success during that time.

Speaking to the Leicester Mercury when he joined the Foxes after his first stint in charge of Celtic, Rodgers praised Ndidi for his creativity.

“He’s obviously a player that’s got the good athletic ability and works very hard

“I always have that sort of player, a clear, controlling player in the game. Sometimes, they’re a defensive type like him that can really press the game and play simply, or sometimes, it’s a more creative player, a playmaker from behind.

“He’s got so much talent and been very impressive. He covers the ground so fast. His anticipation is very good, he reads the game, smells the danger, and to have that type of player in there, it’s very important.”

Now back with the Bhoys, Rodgers has the opportunity to reunite with his old enforcer, who was the subject of interest during his years at Leicester under the Northern Irishman.

As recently as 2023, it was reported that Real Madrid might target the midfielder as holding cover for Frenchman Aurelien Tchouameni, and Manchester United held a long-term interest in recruiting the Nigerian when he was plying his trade in the Premier League.