Everton have a straightforward decision regarding Iliman Ndiaye: keep him. The Senegalese forward has reminded everyone of his talents with just 56 minutes of World Cup action, scoring and assisting in a 5-0 thrashing of Iraq to secure Senegal's place in the round of 32.
Ndiaye's World Cup impact
Ndiaye came off the bench against Iraq and became the first player in World Cup history to score a goal, assist a goal, have five touches in the opposition box and make five dribbles in a single substitute appearance. He set up Pape Gueye for his second goal of the game before scoring a stunning strike himself. This performance followed his assist in Senegal's 3-1 loss to France, where he set up Ibrahim Mbaye's consolation goal. Despite being unused in the 3-2 defeat to Norway, Ndiaye has done enough to stake a claim for a starting spot in the last-32 clash against Belgium.
Everton's summer dilemma
Everton ended the season with a seven-game winless run, and fans are frustrated. New signings like Hayden Hackney would lift the mood, but selling Ndiaye would have the opposite effect. The 26-year-old, signed for £15 million from Marseille, lost form at the worst possible time last season, but his magic has returned on the international stage. According to Paul Wheelock, Everton would be a much poorer team without Ndiaye, and any talk of cashing in is foolish.
Interest from Manchester clubs
Ndiaye is already in demand, with Manchester United and Manchester City reportedly interested. The player himself has not dampened speculation, saying before the World Cup: "Everyone's going to be watching the World Cup. It's definitely a big opportunity for me. You don't know where football will take you next. I want to be playing at the top level. I want to be playing Champions League football." He also addressed his season, stating: "It (the season) has gone okay, personally, I think I could have been better. The start of the season was very good but the second part, not so much. I don't think it's fatigue. I want to be playing in Europe, in the Champions League."
Contract negotiations
Everton cannot offer Ndiaye Champions League football next season, and contract talks have stalled. The Athletic reported that a point of contention is an exit clause that could be triggered as early as this summer. However, Everton hold the cards as Ndiaye has three years remaining on his current deal. The club's desire is to keep the winger and reward him for his progress, which is the right decision given his impact in North America.
