Manchester United face a significant obstacle in their reported pursuit of Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye, with the Merseyside club prepared to demand a fee of around €80 million (£69m) for one of their most important players.
According to reports from The Athletic, Everton have no intention of making it easy for potential suitors this summer despite growing interest in the Senegal international. Manchester United are among the clubs monitoring Ndiaye as Michael Carrick begins reshaping his squad ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The 26-year-old has emerged as one of Everton’s standout performers since arriving from Marseille in 2024, and the club view him as a cornerstone of David Moyes’ rebuilding project.
Everton determined to keep Ndiaye
Everton’s stance reflects both Ndiaye’s importance on the pitch and the club’s desire to avoid losing another key asset during a crucial period.
The winger has scored 15 Premier League goals across the last two seasons and has become one of the first names on Moyes’ team sheet. While contract discussions have continued over the past year, an agreement on fresh terms has yet to be reached.
A reported sticking point remains the inclusion of an exit clause that could become active in the near future. Despite those negotiations, Everton remain confident of retaining the player, who still has three years remaining on his current contract.
The proposed valuation is believed to have been influenced by the recent transfer market, with Everton reportedly pointing to Anthony Gordon’s £70 million move from Newcastle United to Barcelona as a benchmark.
Why Manchester United are interested
Carrick is expected to oversee a busy summer at Old Trafford following several changes within the squad.
Manchester United have already agreed a deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson and recently sanctioned Rasmus Hojlund’s permanent move to Napoli. Further additions are expected in midfield, defence and attack.
A new left-sided attacker is also understood to be on the club’s shortlist, and Ndiaye’s versatility makes him an attractive option. He is capable of operating from the left wing, as a second striker or in a more central attacking role.
Having followed United’s squad development closely in recent months, it is clear the club are targeting players who can contribute immediately rather than long-term projects alone. Ndiaye fits that profile thanks to his Premier League experience and consistent performances for Everton.
| Stat (Everton) | Iliman Ndiaye |
|---|---|
| Seasons | 2 |
| Appearances | 71 |
| Premier League Goals | 15 |
| Contract Remaining | 3 years |
Source: club and reported transfer data – 4 June 2026
The numbers underline why Everton are reluctant sellers and why interested clubs may need to pay a premium.
Moyes makes feelings clear
Moyes has already publicly dismissed the possibility of selling Ndiaye, describing him as the last player he would consider letting leave.
The Everton manager argued that retaining top performers is essential if clubs outside the traditional elite want to continue progressing, particularly in a market where established talent is increasingly difficult to replace.
His comments underline Everton’s determination to resist offers unless a bid arrives that is simply too large to ignore.
Key Points
- Manchester United have shown interest in Iliman Ndiaye.
- Everton are expected to demand around €80m (£69m).
- David Moyes views Ndiaye as one of the club’s most important players.
- The Senegal international has scored 15 Premier League goals in two seasons.
- Ndiaye remains under contract at Everton until 2029.
What’s next?
Manchester United are expected to continue assessing attacking options while prioritising other areas of Carrick’s squad. Everton, meanwhile, will attempt to restart contract discussions with Ndiaye after the World Cup.
However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions about a transfer. While United's interest appears genuine, Everton’s valuation could prove a major deterrent unless circumstances change later in the window. Much may depend on whether Ndiaye pushes for a move or commits his future to Goodison Park.
Would Ndiaye be worth £69 million to Manchester United, or should Carrick look elsewhere for attacking reinforcements this summer?
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