Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester United: Manchester United have started looking at Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye as they continue shaping Michael Carrick’s squad before the transfer window closes, according to the Daily Mirror, with the update relayed by Transfer Feed. The report says United are considering the Senegal international to strengthen the wide attacking positions, although BBC Sport has reported that another central midfielder, a back-up striker and a left-back remain key priorities as well. That wider recruitment plan suggests several areas still demand attention.
Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester United gathers pace after fresh report
Meanwhile, Everton have received a timely public message from Idrissa Gueye. Replying to an Everton social media post during the speculation, the veteran midfielder wrote that he was staying, a comment many supporters viewed as a show of confidence around the club. Ndiaye, 26, gave Everton plenty to smile about during the 2025/26 Premier League season. He scored six goals, supplied three assists and played 2,791 league minutes across 32 appearances. Interest has grown after reports claimed Everton slapped a £75 million valuation on the forward following enquiries from Manchester United and Al-Hilal.
Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester United doesn’t solve the biggest issue
Few players in the league carry the ball through traffic as naturally as Ndiaye. He drives into open grass, commits defenders and creates chaos in transition without needing much space. That quality stood out again for Senegal, where he scored once during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations before producing one goal and two assists in three matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Still, this transfer feels awkward rather than logical. Carrick already has Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount and Matheus Cunha operating in similar inside areas instead of hugging the touchline. Fabrizio Romano previously reported that United’s interest in another wide attacker depended on Marcus Rashford leaving. Rashford now appears firmly back in Carrick’s plans, making another expensive arrival in that position difficult to justify.
Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester United would weaken transfer planning
United’s resources aren’t unlimited. Spending £75 million on Ndiaye could leave less room to strengthen positions that genuinely need fresh quality. BBC Sport’s reporting around a midfielder, reserve striker and left-back reflects the current balance of the squad far more accurately than another versatile attacker.
Read: £60m Newcastle star told to complete transfer move to Manchester United
Everton can demand a premium because Ndiaye’s value has climbed sharply after his strongest campaign. From United’s side, though, paying that figure for someone competing with Rashford, Fernandes and Cunha for similar attacking spaces feels like luxury spending instead of smart squad building.
