Nigeria international Wilfred Ndidi has emerged as a surprise candidate for Manchester United, who are exploring options to strengthen their midfield during the winter transfer window.

Ndidi could be set for a return to English football barely six months after leaving Leicester City for Turkey.

According to talkSPORT, United have discussed the possibility of signing the Besiktas midfielder as they look to add experience and steel to the centre of the pitch at Old Trafford. Head coach Michael Carrick is understood to be keen on reinforcements in the middle of the park, with the club targeting a short-term solution that could help boost their push for Champions League qualification.

Ndidi, who made 220 Premier League appearances for Leicester City before his move to Turkey, is believed to be open to a return to England. The 29-year-old has once again showcased his pedigree on the international stage, playing a key role in Nigeria’s run to the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

United’s interest in Ndidi comes as the club also weigh up an alternative option. They have been offered the chance to sign AC Milan and England midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek, with talks also held over a potential deal. Like Ndidi, Loftus-Cheek is 29 and is open to returning to the Premier League in search of more regular football.

The Red Devils are thought to prefer a loan signing until the end of the season, giving them flexibility to reassess in the summer.

Journalist and transfer insider Ben Jacobs claimed last Friday that United had held talks to sign a midfielder on loan until the end of the campaign. He did not name the player but added that the target has Premier League experience and is currently playing outside England, a description that appears to fit either Ndidi or Loftus-Cheek.

Why Wilfred Ndidi is back on United’s radar

For Loftus-Cheek, the motivation is clear. He earned his 11th England cap last October after a seven-year wait but has started only half of the 22 matches he has played this season. With a World Cup looming this summer, the former Chelsea midfielder needs consistent game time, and a move to Old Trafford could offer that opportunity.

Ndidi’s case is different, but just as compelling. Once regularly linked with some of Europe’s biggest clubs during his peak years at Leicester, he eventually left England for Besiktas last summer, a move that some interpreted as a sign that his best days might be behind him. However, his performances for Nigeria at AFCON 2025 told a different story.

The midfielder was at his dominant best as the Super Eagles won their first five matches of the tournament in Morocco, controlling games, breaking up play and shielding the defence with authority. Nigeria’s only defeat came against hosts Morocco, a match Ndidi missed due to suspension.

He breaks up play well, screens the defence like an expert and marshals the midfield in such a way that gives freedom to the attack-minded players around him to flourish. In that sense, he fits the profile of what United are currently lacking.

A move to Old Trafford could yet prove to be the biggest of his career.

The biggest obstacle may not be Ndidi’s willingness, but Besiktas'.

Only weeks after arriving in Istanbul to a warm reception, he was made vice-captain of the club, a reflection of how highly he is valued. Convincing the Turkish side to part with such a key figure, especially after his AFCON exploits, could prove the toughest part of any deal.

Whether United ultimately move for Ndidi or Loftus-Cheek, the coming days are likely to reveal how serious their plans are to reshape their midfield for the decisive months ahead.