- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that Everton are set to open to talks for a Ligue 1 forward this summer as the Toffees continue their summer plans.
Leeds United winger Jack Harrison and Aston Villa midfielder Tim Iroegbunam have already joined Sean Dyche’s side as the Toffees work on another rebuild.
Everton’s financial position is uncertain this summer with the club dealing with PSR issues during the current off season which means that signings at Goodison Park could be affected.
However, despite this, HITC understands that Everton have opened talks with French giants Marseille over a move for winger Iliman Ndiaye.
Ndiaye told that he is allowed leave Marseille by new manager Roberto De Zerbi
The Toffees are understood to have a long standing interest in the Senegal star and came close to signing him from Sheffield United last summer, before the winger ultimately opted for a move to the South of France.
However, last season was a struggle for the Senegalese ace with just three Ligue 1 goals to his name and sources have told HITC that the winger is now ready for a return to England after new Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi green lit his exit from the French giants.
De Zerbi is embarking on his first managerial role since he decided to leave Brighton & Hove Albion. The former Shakhtar Donetsk manager was in high demand with HITC reporting that Manchester United were keen but the Italian turned the Red Devils down.
Now he has made his move to the South of France, the Italian is getting his feet firmly under the table and Ndiaye is one player who is not wanted by De Zerbi.
Handful of UK based clubs keen on signing Ndiaye
HITC has been told that a handful of clubs in the UK have looked at a deal for Ndiaye, including Marco Silva’s Fulham, Leicester City and Scottish Premiership side Rangers, but the only team to make a firm move are the Toffees and they are now closing in on a deal.
French side Marseille paid around £20 million to land the Senegalese ace from the Blades and sources have told HITC that they would like the majority of this fee back.
However, sources have also told HITC that Everton would like a loan with an option to buy. Ndiaye is also understood to be keen on a move to Goodison Park.
Ndiaye has clearly left an impact in England during his days in Sheffield. After netting for the Blades against Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup, Clinton Morrison was left impressed by the winger.
“It’s a brilliant goal,” Morrison told BBC Radio 5 Live back in March of 2023. “The close control is fantastic. He goes past Porro like he wasn’t there. He’s an outstanding player, Ndiaye. It’s a brilliant goal.”
It appears that Everton are closing in on giving Ndiaye another chance to show what a talented player he is.
The post Sources: Everton close to signing 'outstanding' star who wants move, Rangers had been watching him appeared first on HITC.
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