Wilfred Ndidi: 2 reasons Al Ittihad could beat Al Diriyah in transfer race for Super Eagles star

Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi appears to be at the center of a transfer battle between two Saudi Arabian clubs, Al Ittihad and Al Diriyah, Afrik-Foot reports.

​The 29-year-old defensive midfielder’s name has popped up frequently in transfer discussions regarding Beşiktaş this summer, but his situation remains a major head-scratcher.

​Even though several reports suggest he could exit Tüpraş Stadium this summer, he has continued to play a key role in the club’s pre-season preparations.

Ndidi recently stated that he understands what new coach Vincenzo Italiano wants from him and is confident he can deliver.

​However, over the past week, two Saudi Arabian sides — Al Diriyah and Al Ittihad — have registered an interest in Ndidi. Both clubs have reportedly submitted tempting bids to Beşiktaş, although nothing has materialized just yet.

​A move to the Saudi Pro League would certainly be tempting for any player, let alone an Ndidi who turns 30 in December.

Saudi clubs have developed a reputation for luring players with lucrative deals, and with Ndidi nearing the twilight of his career, it is very likely he will consider the move.

​Among the two clubs that have submitted bids, here are two reasons why Ndidi could choose Al Ittihad over Al Diriyah.

​Why Wilfred Ndidi Could Choose Al Ittihad Over Al Diriyah

​Ndidi still has two years left on his contract at Beşiktaş, but with two Saudi Arabian clubs looking to acquire his services and the prospect of a massive pay bump, there is a strong chance the Super Eagles star could be on his way out.

​However, Al Ittihad appears to be the more likely destination. Al Diriyah is a smaller club compared to Al Ittihad, having only just gained promotion to the Pro League for the first time in history.

​This contrasts sharply with The Tigers, who are the second most successful club in Saudi Arabia. Having won 14 league titles — with the most recent coming two seasons ago — Ndidi would have a strong chance of winning silverware if he moves to Jeddah.

New day in the Tigers camp 🔋🐅#TigersInSpain pic.twitter.com/GaWV2xFHmy

— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) July 20, 2026

Also, at Al Ittihad, Ndidi would work alongside relatively better players. Al Ittihad boasts one of the strongest squads in the league, featuring stars like Moussa Diaby, Youssef En-Nesyri, Steven Bergwijn, and Houssem Aouar.

This is a major advantage, as players naturally want teammates who ensure their hard work is not wasted. Moreover, Al Ittihad command a larger global following and prestige, which would keep Ndidi in the limelight and ensure his place in the Super Eagles remains undisputed.

​In addition, Al Ittihad is a much bigger club in terms of stature. Given their recent domestic success, they have a larger financial muscle than Al Diriyah, which ensures that they can offer a more lucrative package.

​For now, it remains unconfirmed whether Ndidi will leave Istanbul, but a lot can change in a few weeks.