Despite strong interest from French Ligue 1 side AS Monaco, Nigerian international Wilfred Ndidi is set to stay at Leicester City and fulfill his contractual obligations, The Nerve Africa has exclusively learned.
Monaco were keen to secure the versatile defensive midfielder, who can also operate as a central defender. However, Leicester City have firmly rejected the possibility of the 28-year-old leaving during the current transfer window.
A reliable source from his agency, Wonder Sports, confirmed Monaco’s approach but revealed that both the club and the player opted against the move.
“They (Monaco) inquired about Wilfred’s status and were serious about making an offer. They contacted us and Leicester, but the club sees him as an integral member of the team. We respected Leicester’s stance and agreed it was the right decision,” the source told The Nerve Africa in an exclusive interview.
Ndidi, who signed a three-year contract in the summer, last featured for Leicester during their 2-2 draw against Brighton and Hove Albion in early December. He was substituted in the 52nd minute due to a hamstring injury.
Since joining Leicester from Genk in the winter of 2017, Ndidi has become a key figure for the Foxes, making 289 appearances, scoring 18 goals, and providing 21 assists.
Leicester, currently 17th in the Premier League standings under manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, are fighting to avoid relegation. With 17 points from 23 matches, the Foxes are desperate to secure safety, and Ndidi is seen as a critical player in their survival campaign.
The Foxes face Everton next in the league on Saturday, where Ndidi is expected to make his return from injury.