Everton transfer news as Iliman Ndiaye makes January decision
Everton are interested in signing Iliman Ndiaye, but the Senegalese striker has no intention of leaving Marseille, according to Foot Mercato.
The French outlet reported on its website on Monday [18 December] that the Toffees remain interested in signing the 23-year-old forward and are joined by another Premier League club, but he is determined to remain in Ligue 1 beyond the January transfer window.
Ndiaye is a supporter of Marseille and is desperate to succeed with the French club, despite a slow start in Ligue 1 which has seen him score only once in 14 matches so far this season.
Reports emerged from Alan Nixon [17 December] that Everton were one of numerous Premier League clubs on “red alert for a loan swoop”, with Sheffield United and Crystal Palace both also monitoring the 23-year-old’s situation.
Everton were actively interested in completing a move for Ndiaye throughout the summer transfer window after the Senegalese forward impressed in the Championship with Sheffield United, scoring 14 times and assisting a further 10 goals as the Blades won promotion to the Premier League.
The Senegal international earned plenty of praise from then Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom for his “phenomenal” ability [The Telegraph].
However, Ndiaye made the brave call to reject the riches of the Premier League to go and play for his boyhood club in France and it appears as though he is set to do the same again when the January transfer window rolls around.
The Toffees could still do with another option up top given Beto’s slow start to life at Goodison Park and if he does become available the 23-year-old would be an excellent option for Dyche. However, Everton cannot put all their eggs in the Ndiaye basket.
With the window only a matter of days away now, Everton should start drawing up a list of potential alternative forward targets rather than hoping for a change of heart from Marseille and Ndiaye. He clearly wants to succeed with his boyhood club and who can blame him?
