Sport, a newspaper in Barcelona, has reported that Barcelona’s interest in Nigerian international Ndidi is strong. Ndidi’s contract with Leicester is set to expire this summer, and if it’s not renewed, he will be on the market. Barcelona is in need of a holding midfielder, and the 26-year-old has emerged as a potential option.
Barcelona, burdened with debt and financial constraints from La Liga, has had to find creative ways to raise funds and recruit players at a lower cost. One strategy is to scout for players whose contracts are ending in the summer, allowing for budget flexibility to strengthen other areas of the team.
Ndidi will play for Leicester in hopes of maintaining their lead in the Championship when they play Middlesbrough on Saturday.
Ndidi and Leicester have not reached an agreement on a new contract, leading to speculation that the 26-year-old may depart the Foxes once his current deal expires. Despite being considered by many to be a player above Championship level, Ndidi has found himself playing in England’s second tier this season after failing to secure a move in the summer.
The Nigeria international has made 12 appearances in the Championship, with Leicester currently leading the table. In addition to his domestic appearances, he has also featured in the Carabao Cup this season. Since joining the Foxes in 2017, Ndidi has made 252 appearances, playing in the Premier League and Europa League.
Barcelona, facing financial limitations, are exploring other options for acquiring players. Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, and Juventus have all shown interest in Ndidi, leading to speculation of a potential free transfer at the end of the season. While Barcelona had previously sought to sign Ndidi, Leicester quoted a price of £61.3 million, leading to the deal falling through. With no contract in place, a move to a top club like Barcelona could be very enticing for the player.
