Everton have no plans to sell Iliman Ndiaye and believe they hold full control over the winger's future, despite growing interest from Manchester United and Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Al-Hilal have emerged as suitors for the 26-year-old Senegalese international, though no formal approach had been made by Monday morning. Manager David Moyes has consistently stated his desire to keep Ndiaye, who has three years remaining on his contract.
Moyes adamant on keeping key player
Moyes addressed speculation in April, saying: "He is the last person I would consider selling. There are others as well [that I wouldn't want to sell], but my point is I have no interest in hearing the talk if there is talk out there."
He added: "I don't think there is any club that is not a selling club at the right value for their player. I am not saying that means he is for sale, I am not, I just think it is a genuine thing where there is a price where people would say: 'Well, we have to do something.' But it is getting too hard to build teams and also supporters are looking for a quick return which managers are not getting. So why would we be giving up their better players?"
Contract talks and valuation
Everton are not in a position where they must sell, and with Ndiaye's contract running until 2029, they hold a strong negotiating stance. While attempts to agree an improved contract have not yet succeeded, the club feels assured it will not be forced into a sale unless the terms are favourable.
A sale would only be considered if it generated substantial profit on the £15 million invested when Ndiaye joined from Marseille two years ago. Al-Hilal recently signed Crysencio Summerville from relegated West Ham in an initial £55m deal, a fee Everton would likely use as a benchmark for Ndiaye.
Ndiaye's impact and pre-season absence
Ndiaye has been a cornerstone of Everton since joining, scoring crucial goals under Moyes including the last goal at Goodison Park and the first at Hill Dickinson Stadium. His form last season was disrupted by Africa Cup of Nations duty, where he led Senegal to victory, though the final outcome has been subject to a legal dispute.
The winger has not yet reported for pre-season training at Finch Farm due to an extended break for players who participated in the World Cup.
