Man Utd 'discuss relegated midfielder' as Ruben Amorim eyes £9m transfer bargain

Manchester United have held discussions over a shock swoop for Leicester City midfielder Wilfried Ndidi, according to reports. Ruben Amorim may view the recently-relegated star as a cut-price solution in his pursuit of midfield reinforcements this summer.

United have focused their early summer transfer business on the attack after a toothless 2024/25 season, in which they scored just 44 Premier League goals. Matheus Cunha has already joined in a £62.5million transfer from Wolves, while negotiations continue for Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo.

But Amorim reportedly wants to use funds generated from player sales towards a new striker and midfielder.

And with another goalscorer unlikely to come cheap, the United boss appears to be assessing budget options.

According to talkSPORT, the Red Devils have discussed Ndidi as a potential target following Leicester's relegation from the Premier League.

The Foxes' instant drop back into the Championship is said to have activated a £9million release clause in Ndidi's contract.

It's claimed that La Liga club Real Betis are the latest club to enquire about the 28-year-old this summer.

But Ndidi is also thought to be of interest to Everton, Serie A giants Juventus and Saudi Pro League outfits.

The report adds that Ndidi is open to the prospect of moving to Saudi Arabia, which would spell the end of his English football career after eight years.

The Nigeria international joined Leicester from Belgian club Genk in a £17m switch in January 2017.

He grew his reputation as one of the Premier League's most exciting defensive midfielders in his early years, earning links to United among other top clubs.

Ndidi has amassed 303 appearances across his career at the King Power Stadium, scoring 18 goals and providing 22 assists.

He helped Leicester lift the FA Cup and Community Shield in 2021 and surprised many with his willingness to stay put after their surprise relegation two years later.

After playing an important role in Leicester's Championship title win in 2023/24, he featured prominently in last season's tough return to the top flight.

It is currently unclear whether United plan to prioritise a striker or a midfielder once their budget allows. But Ndidi is in the frame, and his low asking price could result in a swift deal.