Manchester City have reached an agreement in principle with Everton to sign Senegal international Iliman Ndiaye in a deal expected to be worth €76m.
The agreement was reached on Monday evening, according to Fabrizio Romano and David Ornstein, with Manchester City prepared to pay the substantial fee for the 25-year-old forward. The move would represent another major investment by a Premier League club and underline the financial strength of England’s top flight in the transfer market.
Ndiaye is expected to travel to Manchester on Tuesday morning to undergo his medical. Provided there are no complications, he will then sign his contract and complete his move to Manchester City, with the Etihad Stadium set to become his new home.
The transfer marks a dramatic rise for a player whose career had appeared to stall at Olympique de Marseille. Ndiaye joined Everton from the French club after failing to establish himself fully during his time in Marseille. His spell there was regarded as unfinished business and prompted him to seek a fresh challenge in the Premier League.
That decision has since transformed his prospects. Two years after arriving at Everton, Ndiaye has revived his career with the Toffees and attracted the attention of one of English football’s leading clubs. His progress has now put him on the verge of a move to Manchester City, just two years after leaving Marseille.
The proposed transfer would be a significant step for the Senegal forward, who has become an established international for his country. His performances in England have pushed his market value considerably higher, although Transfermarkt currently estimates it at €55m.
Ndiaye’s reported annual salary in England is €2,795,582, equivalent to 1,817,128,300 FCFA. A move to Manchester City would represent the latest stage of an unexpectedly rapid development for the player, whose career has taken a decisive turn since moving to the Premier League.
The timing of the proposed transfer also comes as Manchester United prepare to face Everton in the third round of the English championship. The match is scheduled to take place very soon, with betting company 1xbet listing Manchester United as the 2.20 favourite to win. A draw is priced at 3.30, while an Everton victory is listed at 2.80.
Unless the medical or contract discussions create an unexpected obstacle, Ndiaye’s move should now enter its final stages before being formally confirmed by Manchester City and Everton.
