Richard Hughes planning raid for Everton contract rebel forward
· Yahoo Sports
Liverpool have been tipped to shake up their attacking options this summer.
Despite spending £450m in last summer’s transfer window there is a sense that the job is not yet complete.
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We are waiting to see the best of two British record arrivals - Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak - while Hugo Ekitike will be out of action until 2027 with an achilles injury.
The outgoing Premier League champions will also be losing Mohamed Salah on a free transfer while Federico Chiesa is again being linked with a return to Serie A.
Accordingly sporting director Richard Hughes and incoming head coach Andoni Iraola need quality reinforcements in the off-season.
And a report in TEAMtalk is claiming that Liverpool are ready to go after Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye - who is involved in a contract standoff with the Reds’ Merseyside rivals.
Liverpool plotting raid on Everton
Ndiaye, 26, joined the Toffees back in 2024 from Marseille and has quickly established himself as one of the standout attackers in the Premier League.
Last season he scored six times and provided three assists in the top flight for David Moyes’ side - and he is now on the radar of several top clubs including Liverpool.
“Ndiaye has rejected a series of proposals designed to extend and improve his contract at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, with his current deal running until the summer of 2029,” the report reads.
“One of the sticking points is understood to be the inclusion of a release clause – something Ndiaye’s representatives would like, but Everton are reluctant to agree to.
“Man Utd are among those keeping a close eye on developments, but they are certainly not alone, with Liverpool considering a blockbuster raid on their Merseyside rivals.
“While Liverpool’s priorities may evolve as the market develops, Ndiaye continues to be viewed internally as a player capable of thriving at the highest level.
“Arsenal, Manchester City and Chelsea have all been informed of the player’s situation and continue to monitor events closely.”
Iliman Ndiaye: Situation summary
Iliman Ndiaye has quickly become one of Everton’s most watchable attackers, built on tight dribbling, sharp changes of pace and a willingness to carry the ball into crowded areas.
He is most dangerous when receiving to feet, driving inside from wide areas and attacking in transition, though Everton have also used him on the right, where he has adapted by arriving at the back post more often.
Contractually, Everton are in a strong position. Ndiaye signed a five-year deal in 2024, with his contract reportedly running until June 2029, so the club do not face any immediate pressure to sell.