Liverpool are reportedly “on alert” regarding a stunning move for Everton attacker Iliman Ndiaye, amid rumours of a switch to the Saudi Pro League.
It’s extremely rare for a player to move from the Reds to the Blues, with Nick Barmby’s shock transfer to Anfield back in 2000 still something that rankles with Toffees supporters.
For that reason, it would be a huge surprise to see anyone head in either direction this summer, but Liverpool are believed to be keeping an eye on Ndiaye’s situation.
That’s according to a new claim from TEAMtalk, who report that Saudi side Al-Hilal’s approach for the Nigerian has put both the Reds and Manchester United “on alert” currently.
They state that the two Premier League rivals “had been monitoring” Ndiaye’s situation before now, adding that “sources have confirmed that interest has not diminished.”
Everton do not want to sell Ndiaye, however, and in fact, they are “prepared to open talks over an improved long-term contract” as they look to “reward him for his importance” under David Moyes.
Could Liverpool really sign Iliman Ndiaye from Everton?
This is a transfer that would reverberate around Merseyside and beyond, given the rivalry between Liverpool and Everton, and Ndiaye could excel under Andoni Iraola.
He has consistently been the Blues’ most effective attacking player in recent years, scoring 17 goals in 71 appearances, and Vitalii Mykolenko has waxed lyrical about him, saying:
“Then, he will create everything from a few yards, he needs just a few yards. If you’ve seen his skills, it’s incredible. I don’t like to play against players like him. If you play the ball to him, he can make everything, he can create, he can do anything with the ball. I think he’s the most skilful player in the Premier League at the moment.”
It is extremely hard to see Liverpool actually signing Ndiaye, though, with Everton surely not even considering the idea of selling arguably their best player to their local adversaries.
For that reason, the Reds must focus on alternative wide forwards, hopefully sealing the signing of Bradley Barcola and one more winger before the new season gets underway.
Henry is an experienced football writer with a huge passion and knowledge of Liverpool.
He is also a main contributor for This Is Anfield, one of the world's biggest Reds-related sites, where he writes features and news, and covers matchday content.
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