Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye has dropped a hint regarding his future, with Arsenal and Manchester United among the clubs reportedly interested in securing his services this summer. The 26-year-old Senegal international has given potential suitors some encouragement after expressing his ambition to compete at the highest level.
Ndiaye's Career Path and Recent Form
Ndiaye joined Everton in 2024 following stints at Sheffield United and Marseille. He enjoyed an impressive debut season on Merseyside, netting 11 goals across all competitions. However, his output dipped in the most recent campaign, managing only six goals. Despite this, the versatile forward remains a key target for top Premier League clubs.
World Cup Ambitions and Club Future
Currently representing Senegal at the World Cup, Ndiaye has earned 39 caps for his country. Speculation over his club future has intensified, with Manchester United, Arsenal, and Manchester City all linked with moves for the France-born star, who can play on either wing or as a supporting striker.
Champions League Football a Priority
All three clubs can offer Ndiaye Champions League football, a factor he has emphasized as crucial. 'You don't know where football will take you next,' Ndiaye told SportBible. 'As I've always said, I want to be the best player and to do that, you have to play at the top. I want to be playing at the top level. I want to be playing Champions League football.'
Ambition and Trophies Drive Ndiaye
The forward is highly ambitious and would likely need convincing from Everton to stay if offers materialize. 'When I look back at everything I've done, everything I've been through, it is something to be proud of. But it doesn't stop here. You don't stop when you've made it. You want to go further and achieve things,' he added. 'Since I was young, I've always had the same dream — to be the best player in the world. I also want to win trophies for my club and country. That's what I play football for. You want to win trophies and make people proud, your family proud, your country proud. I don't want to have any regrets.'
Everton's Stance and Valuation
Everton manager David Moyes has described Ndiaye as the 'last person I would consider selling,' but the club would only entertain significant offers. Reports suggest the Toffees will place a 'prohibitive valuation' of around £70 million on the winger, basing the figure on Anthony Gordon's recent £70 million move to Barcelona from Newcastle United. This valuation is intended to deter potential suitors.
Ndiaye's Senegal begin their World Cup campaign on Tuesday night against France in New Jersey, a challenging start for the African side.
