Leicester City’s Midfield Star Caught Between Loyalty and New Opportunities

Eight-time Ligue 1 champions AS Monaco remain determined to sign Leicester City and Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, despite Leicester manager Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s insistence that the Nigerian will not leave the King Power Stadium this month.

Ndidi, who suffered a hamstring injury during Leicester’s 2-2 draw with Brighton in early December, has been a key absentee for the Foxes. The club has struggled without him, managing just one win in six Premier League matches since his injury and currently languishing in 19th place on the table.

Speaking on the situation, Van Nistelrooy ruled out the possibility of Ndidi’s departure. “Wilfred is a key player and person in the squad. We’ve missed him, and we need him. He’s vital to helping us get out of this situation,” the Dutch coach remarked, as reported by Sportsblog247.com.

However, French outlet L’Equipe claims AS Monaco remain undeterred in their pursuit of Ndidi. Under manager Adolf Hütter, Monaco is sitting third in Ligue 1, trailing league leaders Paris Saint-Germain by 13 points. The club is reportedly exploring a loan deal with an option to buy for the 28-year-old.

Despite Van Nistelrooy’s resistance, Ndidi is reportedly open to a move to the French club, leaving the final decision to Leicester City. A move would see the Nigerian leave England for the first time since joining Leicester from Genk in 2017. Over the years, Ndidi has been a pillar for the Foxes, making 289 appearances and contributing 18 goals and 21 assists, including helping the team win the FA Cup in 2021.

Ndidi recently signed a three-year deal with Leicester, betting on the club’s survival in the Premier League. But with relegation fears mounting and Monaco offering top-level European football, a transfer could reignite his career.

For Leicester, losing Ndidi would be a massive blow to their survival hopes. However, for the player, now 28, a move abroad could provide a fresh challenge and an opportunity to compete at the highest level.