Besiktas weigh Ndidi, Uduokhai exits amid foreign player quota pressure

Besiktas are preparing a squad review that could see Wilfred Ndidi and Felix Uduokhai moved on as the club adjusts to Turkish foreign player quota rules ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The Istanbul side, undergoing structural and financial recalibration, are said to be prioritising compliance with league regulations while also attempting to balance their wage bill.

The review has placed several overseas players under scrutiny despite their roles in the team.

Squad restructuring driven by regulations

Ndidi, who joined from Leicester City in the summer of 2025, has quickly become an important figure in midfield for the Black and Whites.

However, his status has not insulated him from potential exit discussions as the club looks to free up foreign player slots.

Reports in Turkish media, including Fanatik, indicate that manager Vincenzo Italiano has identified Ndidi and defender Uduokhai among players who could be offloaded as part of a broader restructuring strategy.

The foreign player quota in Turkish football continues to force top-flight clubs into difficult decisions, often requiring the sale or loan of established internationals to register new arrivals.

Transfer interest builds around Ndidi

Ndidi’s situation is already attracting external attention, with clubs in Saudi Arabia reportedly monitoring developments closely ahead of a possible summer move.

Despite speculation, the Nigerian international is still expected to return for pre-season training on June 28, leaving his immediate future unresolved.

Besiktas are expected to make final decisions on affected players before the start of the new campaign, with Italiano set to submit a revised squad plan in line with both competitive and regulatory demands.