Manchester United were working on a deal to sign Wilfred Ndidi last summer before he signed a new contract at Leicester City, Standard Sport understands.
The defensive midfielder has been linked with a cut-price move to United or Everton this summer following Leicester’s relegation, but it is understood that the Red Devils previously explored a deal to sign him last summer.
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Ndidi became a free agent for three weeks last summer, prompting interest from West Ham, Fulham and Everton.
United were also keen on signing him on a free transfer, but he eventually agreed a new three-year deal with Leicester, which included an option for a fourth year.
That contract included a release clause. Ndidi is believed to be available for less than £9million now that the Foxes have been relegated to the Championship ahead of the new season.
Ndidi, who was being monitored by Barcelona and Lyon during Leicester’s promotion-winning 2023/24 campaign under Enzo Maresca, is looking to leave the King Power Stadium this summer.
The 28-year-old is an experienced Nigeria international and has won 65 caps since his debut in August 2015. He played 28 Premier League matches last season as Leicester were relegated, claiming five assists.
Manchester United are expecting plenty of incomings and outgoing this summer, with Marcus Rashford, Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia all hoping to leave the club. The group have been excused from pre-season training as they chase moves.
