Tottenham have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Everton winger.
Tottenham Hotspur and Everton quickly negotiated a double deal on Sunday which would see Iliman Ndiaye move to North London and Richarlison return to the Toffees.
Iliman Ndiaye had been on Tottenham’s radar and viewed as an ideal Cody Gakpo alternative after the Liverpool star decided against joining Roberto De Zerbi’s forces and moving to Manchester City last week. However, in a huge twist, Liverpool rejected an £85m bid from Manchester City on Monday evening and made the final decision to keep Gakpo.
This has led to a domino effect, and Spurs and Everton have encountered issues at the final stages of a deal for Ndiaye.
Manchester City make fresh attempt to sign Tottenham target Iliman Ndiaye
According to reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano on X, Manchester City are advancing in talks for Ndiaye. Jack Grealish can re-join Everton in a separate deal, with Man City currently ahead of Tottenham in the race to sign Ndiaye.
The Senegalese international has sparkled for the Toffees over the past couple of seasons, establishing himself as one of the exciting wide attackers in the Premier League. Earlier this summer, the 26-year-old turned down a move to the Saudi Pro League, making it clear that he wants to remain in the Premier League.
A move to Tottenham looked like happening for Ndiaye until today, but Man City have powered their way into the race now. The Cityzens are currently the frontrunners for the signature of the Everton star, who has played in both Premier League games this season and bagged an assist.
City advancing in talks for the African winger should come as a huge setback for De Zerbi and Tottenham. The ex-Sheffield United man offers proven Premier League experience, versatility and tactical mobility across the front line, qualities that align directly with De Zerbi’s attacking vision. Plus, De Zerbi and the 26-year-old worked together at Marseille, which would have benefited Spurs.
Now, it feels like the Lilywhites are about to lose a key target to our Premier League rivals. After working hard to reach an agreement in principle with Everton for the attacker, City are now primed to get a deal for Ndiaye over the line. And their openness to let Grealish re-join Everton works out very well for all parties involved.
In parallel to Ndiaye’s potential failed move to White Hart Lane, Richarlison’s hopes of returning to Everton now looks in jeopardy.