Arsenal have been handed fresh encouragement over Iliman Ndiaye after the £75million-rated Everton forward rejected a lucrative move to Al-Hilal and made clear he wants to remain in the Premier League.
Mikel Arteta’s side have already made an enquiry over Ndiaye as they consider adding another attacker before the transfer window closes.
Everton’s valuation has previously been reported at around £75million, which would make any deal another significant investment for Arsenal.
There is now, however, one fewer possible destination for the Senegal international.
Iliman Ndiaye Arsenal transfer handed fresh opening
Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Tuesday night that Ndiaye has decided not to proceed with a proposed move to Al-Hilal despite a sizeable financial offer.
More importantly for Arsenal, Romano reports that Ndiaye’s preference is to continue playing in the Premier League.
That does not mean Ndiaye has chosen Arsenal or that a deal with Everton is imminent. Manchester United have also previously been linked with the 26-year-old and Everton remain in a strong negotiating position.
It does, however, keep the door open for Arteta’s side.
ReadArsenal reported last week that Arsenal had made an enquiry over Ndiaye’s availability as the Gunners assessed several options to strengthen their forward line.
Ndiaye’s versatility makes him particularly interesting. He can operate from the left, centrally or behind a striker, giving Arteta another option across several attacking positions.
Arsenal’s next move remains unclear and there has been no reported agreement with Everton.
But Ndiaye rejecting a lucrative Saudi switch while explicitly prioritising Premier League football ensures one of Arsenal’s attacking targets remains firmly within reach as the final weeks of the transfer window approach.
Comments.
Loading comments…