Manchester City add Iliman Ndiaye to summer transfer shortlist

Manchester City are reportedly considering a move for Everton attacker Iliman Ndiaye as they continue evaluating options to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

The Senegal international has emerged as one of Everton's most influential attacking players since arriving from Marseille in 2024, and his performances have not gone unnoticed across the Premier League.

With Enzo Maresca preparing for his first season at the Etihad Stadium and director of football Hugo Viana leading recruitment plans, Ndiaye has reportedly been identified as a versatile option capable of adding depth and flexibility to City's attack.

According to reports, Manchester City have revived their interest in Ndiaye after initially enquiring about the player in late 2025.

The 26-year-old's ability to operate across multiple attacking positions is believed to be one of the key reasons behind City's admiration. Ndiaye is comfortable playing on either flank, through the middle as a number ten, or in a more advanced supporting role.

That versatility could prove particularly valuable as City reshape their squad following several departures this summer.

Having followed Everton closely over the past two seasons, Ndiaye has consistently been among their most dangerous attacking players, combining creativity, ball-carrying ability and technical quality in the final third.

His performances have helped establish him as one of the Premier League's standout attacking talents outside the traditional top six clubs.

Manchester City are unlikely to have a clear path if they decide to formalise their interest.

Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur have both previously been linked with Ndiaye, and reports suggest admiration for the Senegal international remains strong elsewhere in the Premier League.

Everton would also be reluctant to lose one of their key attacking players, particularly given his importance to the team's offensive structure.

That means any potential negotiations could prove complicated, especially if multiple clubs enter the race.

For now, City's interest appears to be at the monitoring stage rather than an advanced pursuit.

The wider context surrounding City's transfer strategy helps explain the interest.

While Erling Haaland remains the focal point of the attack, supported by players such as Rayan Cherki, Jeremy Doku and Antoine Semenyo, the departures of Bernardo Silva and other squad members have reduced overall depth.

As a result, City are assessing several profiles capable of strengthening the squad without necessarily arriving as guaranteed starters.

Ndiaye appears to fit that category.

His experience in English football, tactical flexibility and ability to impact matches from multiple positions make him an attractive squad-building option as Maresca prepares for a demanding campaign across several competitions.

Manchester City are expected to continue assessing attacking options while prioritising midfield reinforcements during the early stages of the transfer window. Ndiaye's situation could become clearer if Everton receive formal approaches from interested clubs.

For now, the Senegal international remains an attractive option due to his versatility and Premier League experience, but there is no indication that City are preparing an immediate bid. Recruitment priorities elsewhere in the squad may ultimately determine whether interest develops into concrete negotiations.

Would Iliman Ndiaye be a smart squad addition for Manchester City, or should the club focus on signing a more established attacking star?