Everton's Iliman Ndiaye arrives before the match
Everton have stepped up their search for attacking reinforcements by submitting a £35m bid for a forward who could end up replacing Iliman Ndiaye at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Those on Merseyside could be preparing for the possibility of losing one of their standout performers from last season in the Senegal international, following some heavy speculation in recent weeks.
Ndiaye enjoyed an outstanding campaign under David Moyes, establishing himself as Everton's main attacking threat thanks to his pace, dribbling ability and eye for goal. He contributed to nine goals and missed just four Premier League games in the 2025/26 season.
REUTERS/Agustin Marcarian
However, his future is now far from certain. Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal have been strongly linked with a move for the 26-year-old, with Everton reportedly braced for a major offer before the transfer window closes.
That uncertainty may have accelerated the club's search for another dynamic attacker capable of operating across the front line, with Everton launching a bid for a new exciting addition in the final third.
Everton make £35m bid for Galatasaray forward Yilmaz
According to Turkish journalist Burhan Can Terzi, Everton have made their move for Galatasaray forward Baris Alper Yilmaz putting a bid “on the table”.
REUTERS/Matthew Childs
The Turkey international is the subject of a £35m offer from the Toffees, with Everton officials seeing Yilmaz as a leading attacking target, potentially due to the growing uncertainty over Ndiaye's future.
Should Everton need to replace Ndiaye before the deadline, Yilmaz could be a shrewd option. The 26-year-old enjoyed another excellent season for Galatasaray, registering 12 goals and 16 assists in 49 appearances across all competitions.
He is able to play on either wing, through the middle or even as a wing-back when required, establishing himself as one of the Turkish champions' most influential players.
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Yilmaz's rise to fame in Turkey
Breakthrough at Ankara Keçiörengücü
Galatasaray's star
Turkey hero
Explosive pace, direct running and relentless work rate are just a few of Yilmaz’s attributes, and naturally right-footed, like Ndiaye, would offer the ability to star on either side.
Football Transfers have compared Yilmaz to Ndiaye, with both attackers excelling through progressive carries, successful dribbles and their ability to receive possession between the lines.
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With Ndiaye's future still unresolved, Everton appear to be moving quickly to secure a replacement before any departure is finalised.
It will be interesting to see if Everton are willing to secure Yilmaz’s services if Ndiaye stays put, but if they are, the pair could be a dream duo for Moyes ahead of the 2026/27 season.