Manchester City have secured a £65 million agreement for Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye after a failed pursuit of Liverpool's Cody Gakpo. The 26-year-old is expected to undergo a medical shortly.
- Manchester City and Everton agree on a £65 million package for Iliman Ndiaye.
- Medical examination scheduled for Tuesday morning.
- The move follows Liverpool's rejection of an £80m bid for Cody Gakpo.
- Ndiaye had previously turned down multiple contract extensions at Everton.
In a whirlwind series of events, Manchester City have reached an agreement in principle with Everton to sign the dynamic forward Iliman Ndiaye. The deal, valued at £65 million ($88.1m), is currently being finalized, marking one of the most high-profile movements in the closing stages of the transfer window.
The pursuit of Ndiaye gained momentum after Manchester City's primary target, Cody Gakpo, remained unavailable. Liverpool reportedly rejected a massive £80 million bid for the Dutch international, forcing Pep Guardiola's side to pivot quickly. This shift occurred amidst a chaotic weekend where Tottenham Hotspur also attempted to secure Ndiaye in a deal involving Richarlison's return to Everton.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that City's urgency stems from a void left in their attacking department following the departures of Savinho and Omar Marmoush. While Ndiaye might be viewed as a 'solid' rather than a 'spectacular' signing compared to Gakpo, his ability to create chances and his relentless work rate make him an ideal fit for the high-intensity system at the Etihad Stadium.
The acquisition of Ndiaye demonstrates City's agility in the market, pivoting from a primary target to a high-value alternative without losing momentum.
Ndiaye's journey at Everton has been impressive. Joining from Marseille in 2024 for a modest £15 million, he has since evolved into a key asset, recording 17 goals and four assists across 73 appearances. His refusal to sign a new contract last season signaled his ambition to move to a top-tier contender.
| Metric | Iliman Ndiaye (Everton) | Cody Gakpo (Liverpool) |
|---|---|---|
| Deal Value | £65 Million | £80 Million (Rejected) |
| Transfer Status | Agreement in Principle | Staying at Liverpool |
| Key Strength | Work Rate & Creation | Technical Versatility |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When will Iliman Ndiaye officially join Manchester City?
A: He is expected to undergo his medical on Tuesday morning, with the official announcement following the completion of paperwork.
Q2: Why did the Tottenham deal for Ndiaye collapse?
A: Reports indicate the deal broke down over the specifics of Richarlison's return to Everton, allowing City to swoop in.
