Everton have a real star emerging as the hype around Iliman Ndiaye continues to build after his display against Manchester City.
The Toffees lost at Manchester City, but the buzz around Iliman Ndiaye has been enormous in recent days.
Ndiaye caused no end of problems for the City back line and should have had at least one assist to his name.
City fans were dazzled by Ndiaye, and David Moyes praised the Everton winger after the final whistle.
Pat Nevin is even backing Ndiaye for a big transfer in 2026, but Everton will be looking to fend off any suitors in 2026.
Manchester United v Everton FC: Premier League Summer Series
Photo by Kevin C. Cox – Premier League/Getty Images
Everton must take inspiration from Manchester United transfers over Iliman Ndiaye
Inter Milan wanted Ndiaye over the summer, but Everton stood firm over a proposed £40million move.
Interest is bound to emerge in 2026, but Everton need to stand firm once again.
Look around the Premier League and you will see exciting attacking players who have been signed for big money.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
Manchester United are a prime example after signing Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo this past summer.
Cunha and Mbeumo cost more than £60million each, and the same goes for Eberechi Eze’s move to Arsenal.
That is now the going rate for Premier League attackers who offer skill and, crucially, versatility.
Ndiaye fits that bill as a player who can terrorise defenders from multiple positions in the final third.
United were happy to cough up more than £60million for both Cunha and Mbeumo after seeing them shine in the Premier League, just as Ndiaye is right now.
Those deals are a strong blueprint for Everton to follow if clubs come calling for Ndiaye, with a price tag of more than £60million required for a player of his quality.
Iliman Ndiaye must still add more goals and assists
Everton cannot be bullied over Ndiaye, and we would anticipate another firm stance from The Friedkin Group if interest emerges.
Ndiaye is bound to have admirers, but one factor we cannot ignore here is goals and assists.
Mbeumo hit 20 goals and seven assists last season to earn his move to United, while Cunha chipped in with 15 goals and six assists for Wolves last term.
Ndiaye has yet to hit that mark, finishing last season with nine goals and no assists.
This season has started well for Ndiaye, having recorded three goals and one assist in eight games.
Ndiaye certainly has the talent to match Mbeumo and Cunha’s output, and that would only strengthen Everton’s bargaining position in 2026.