Leicester City facing huge ‘problem’ in Wilfred Ndidi transfer saga as top-flight clubs circle

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EFL Analysis understands that Leicester City are facing a huge ‘problem’ in the Wilfred Ndidi transfer saga.

After being relegated from the Premier League, Leicester supporters would have wanted the summer transfer window to run smoothly, but that was never going to be the case.

Leicester are already facing a nine-point deduction for allegedly breaching profit and sustainability rules during the 2023/24 campaign, while no players have been brought into the King Power Stadium.

Instead, talk of player exits have dominated the headlines, with new manager Marti Cifuentes desperately trying to hold onto some of his best stars.

One of those is midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who looks destined to leave the Foxes after eight years of service.

Leicester City could lose Wilfred Ndidi for less than his release clause

In April, it emerged that Ndidi had a £9 million release clause in his contract following relegation from the Premier League.

Manchester United are one of several clubs interested in landing Ndidi for his bargain price, with Everton and Crystal Palace also joined by a raft of Bundesliga clubs in the race.

Amid Leicester’s concerns financially, EFL Analysis understands, as per information from our Chief Football Correspondent, Graeme Bailey, that the Foxes could lose the Nigerian for less than his release clause next month.

This presents Leicester with a huge ‘problem’, as clubs won’t press forward with a deal knowing that City are struggling with their finances.

Indeed, the likes of Man United and other European clubs could be waiting patiently to sign the 28-year-old later in the window, with the expectation he returns to the Premier League.

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Leicester’s new asking price for Bilal El Khannouss revealed

Ndidi has been an incredible servant to the Foxes, amassing 220 appearances during his time at the club and becoming a quality top-flight operator.

But it isn’t just the future of the Nigerian international that Cifuentes has to worry about, as Bilal El Khannouss is wanted by Arsenal after his impressive debut campaign.

That being said, Leicester will only sell El Khannouss if a significant bid is made, and according to Sky Sports reporter Rob Dorsett, they’re looking at £25 million+ for the Moroccan.

City paid around £21 million for the attacking midfielder last summer, but as they suffered relegation, the fee they can command is naturally lower.