Iliman Ndiaye attracting rising Premier League interest
Iliman Ndiaye’s rise since departing Marseille has been one of the Premier League’s quieter success stories, but it is now drawing some of England’s biggest clubs into a potential mid-season transfer battle. The forward, who struggled for rhythm and confidence during his spell in France, has rediscovered his edge in England and become a central figure at Everton. That resurgence has placed Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham on alert as they assess attacking reinforcements for the months ahead.
Ndiaye’s development at Everton
When Everton committed close to €20 million to secure Ndiaye from Marseille in the summer of 2024, it was viewed as a calculated gamble. His return of four goals in 46 matches for the Ligue 1 side suggested a player requiring patience rather than one ready to take over matches immediately. Yet his Premier League adaptation proved swift.
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Settling quickly under David Moyes, the Senegal international delivered nine league goals in his debut season — a strong return for a player with limited top-flight starting experience prior to that point. His impact was not simply numerical; he offered the Toffees a technical focal point, linking play with intelligence and earning the appreciation of supporters who saw his confidence steadily return.
Now in his second season, Ndiaye has moved up another level. Across his first twelve Premier League appearances of the campaign, the 25-year-old has produced four goals and an assist, re-establishing himself as Everton’s chief attacking conduit. His understanding with team-mates, including the in-form Jack Grealish, has been central to their attacking progression.
Growing admiration from key rivals
Such form rarely goes unnoticed, particularly when the player in question blends versatility, work rate and end product. According to information gathered from English and French sources, several leading Premier League clubs have stepped up their analysis of Ndiaye as they plot their recruitment strategies for 2026.
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Manchester City are understood to be exploring options to enhance their attacking depth, with their scouting department monitoring Ndiaye’s development closely. Liverpool, similarly, are keeping an active watching brief as they consider long-term additions to support Arne Slot’s evolving forward unit. Tottenham, who continue to refine their squad under Thomas Frank, have also placed the Everton forward firmly within their shortlist.
Each club appears drawn to the same qualities: a technically polished attacker who can operate centrally or from wide positions, contribute decisively and adapt to varied tactical demands — an increasingly valuable profile in a league where flexibility is prized.
What comes next for Ndiaye?
Everton’s position will inevitably influence how feasible any move becomes. Ndiaye remains a pivotal figure in their attacking structure, and prising him from Goodison Park would require a compelling package both financially and in terms of the player’s career trajectory. His contract situation, performance level and newfound importance to Moyes’ system mean negotiations — if they arise — would not be straightforward.
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For now, the forward’s focus appears locked on sustaining his form. But as the season progresses and transfer strategies sharpen across the league, his name will remain prominent in recruitment meetings at Manchester City, Liverpool, Everton and elsewhere.
A story worth following as the Premier League prepares for another competitive window.
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