Chelsea defensive midfielder scouting part two: Wilfred Ndidi

Conclusion

Considering Tuchel has likely decided to stick with the 3-4-3 for the rest of this season because of the defensive stability it brings, he might decide to continue with it next season. If he does, Ndidi would fit perfectly in the side, as he already presses a lot, and makes winning the ball back a priority. Ndidi doesn’t make that many progressive passes per game, but he tends to try and catch the opposition’s defense out with through balls to attackers running in behind.

Ndidi also offers versatility and tactical flexibility, as he allows Tuchel to switch to a 4-3-3 that requires a lone defensive midfielder. Ndidi is already familiar with protecting a back four on his own, so that’d be right up his alley. He’d be tasked with killing teams in transition and making sure Chelsea has the upper hand in midfield. Ndidi’s presence in the side would also ensure that the Blues would not be vulnerable on the counter. His frame and height mean that Chelsea would have someone who can also shield the ball from bigger players, as well as win aerial duels before it troubles the centerbacks, as he boasts a 60 percent aerial success rate in the period under scrutiny.

The 4-3-3 might appeal to Tuchel, as it allows him to include more attacking players in the line-up and he can move Mason Mount to midfield to play as a more attack-minded central midfielder where his skillset is better suited. The 4-3-3 could be what solves the Blues’ current lack of goals. Ndidi would fit that formation perfectly as he’d provide a platform for the attackers to be more expressive, much like what John Obi Mikel did for Chelsea in the 2009/10 Premier League season where Chelsea recorded its highest goal scoring count to date. It would also mirror his role under Roberto Di Matteo in the Champions League-winning season.

Leicester is well aware of the talent it has in Ndidi, and getting him would not be easy, but Chelsea should be able to get him in the region of £45-50 million—maybe slightly more—as his contract runs until 2024. This would be fair price for a player of his defensive intelligence and tactical awareness.

Do you think the Blues should pursue Ndidi? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter!