{
  "id": 333885,
  "title": "Saudi club to improve Ndidi offer",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/09/saudi-club-to-improve-ndidi-offer",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-09T02:16:53.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch",
    "slug": "punch",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/saudi-club-to-improve-ndidi-offer/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Al Diriyah, a Saudi Arabian club, is set to enhance its offer to attract Turkish giants Besiktas to sell Wilfred Ndidi, the Super Eagles captain, during the ongoing summer transfer window, according to PUNCH Sports Extra. Turkish sports daily Fanatik states that Al Diriyah seeks to secure Ndidi's services after an initial bid of €7 million was declined by Besiktas. The club is now gearing up to present a superior offer as they aim to bolster their midfield options. Ndidi, who joined Besiktas from Leicester City last summer, has proven to be a crucial player for the Black and Whites, owing to his experience, leadership, and defensive capabilities. The Nigerian midfielder, who recently returned from an injury layoff, played a pivotal role in Besiktas' 1-0 victory over FC Hradec Kralove in the UEFA Conference League qualifier. Ndidi's consistent performances have piqued the interest of numerous clubs, with reports suggesting a growing link between him and a potential move to Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Besiktas appears to be preparing for the prospect of Ndidi's departure, with speculation suggesting the Turkish club is in discussions over a potential signing of Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessie on a free transfer.",
  "summary": "Saudi Arabian club Al Diriyah is set to make an improved offer for Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi. com/saudi-club-to-improve-ndidi-offer/",
  "key_points": [
    "Al Diriyah to increase offer for Wilfred Ndidi from €7 million.",
    "Besiktas declined initial bid, now facing potential loss of midfielder.",
    "Ndidi crucial to Besiktas' midfield, recently returned from injury."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Al Diriyah's improved offer for Wilfred Ndidi signals a significant escalation in their pursuit of the Super Eagles captain, potentially pressuring Besiktas to reconsider their stance on selling him.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Punch Nigeria",
        "title": "Saudi club to improve Ndidi offer",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/09/saudi-club-to-improve-ndidi-offer-339279",
        "published": "2026-08-09T03:11:36.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}