Iliman Ndiaye courted by Al-Hilal! Should the Senegalese star leave the Premier League?
One of the hottest topics of this summer transfer window is the potential transfer of Iliman Ndiaye to Al-Hilal. The Senegal international could be on the verge of opening a new chapter in his career by signing with the Saudi Pro League. It's a double-edged sword for a player regarded as a key asset in Everton's squad.
An agreement between Al-Hilal and the player
After sealing the arrival of Crysencio Summerville from West Ham for nearly €80 million on Friday, Al-Hilal has now turned its attention to another target: Senegalese winger Iliman Ndiaye. According to Fabrizio Romano, an agreement has been reached between the Saudi club and the player's representatives.
The Riyadh-based club is pulling out all the stops to reclaim its spot at the top of Saudi football, just a year after losing the title to Al-Nassr. That's why they're willing to spend astronomical sums to sign players who can strengthen their squad.
Everton demands €70 million
The Toffees aren't opposed to letting their player go, but not at any price. According to Football Insider and The National, Everton values Ndiaye at €70 million. The Saudi club will need to strike a deal with the Liverpool side if they want to secure his signature.
Ndiaye's long-term contract, running until June 2029, gives Everton a strong hand in negotiations. However, the player's desire to move could still tip the scales.
Is the SPL the preferred destination for Senegalese players?
Senegalese stars have been shining in the Saudi Pro League for several seasons now, with the likes of Sadio Mané at Al-Nassr and Kalidou Koulibaly at Al-Hilal leading the way. Others have followed in their footsteps, most recently Idrissa Gana Gueye, who signed with Al-Diriyah.
Incidentally, the former PSG midfielder—who was also Ndiaye's teammate at Everton—could play a key role in bringing Ndiaye to Saudi Arabia. The two maintain a strong relationship and could reunite in the Kingdom.
Should Ndiaye leave the Premier League?
Leaving the Premier League for Saudi Arabia could be lucrative financially, but remains a risky move from a sporting perspective. The SPL is no longer as attractive as it once was, when big stars left top European clubs to try their luck in the Kingdom.
The Lion of Teranga was once on Manchester United's radar, and staying in what many consider the world's best league might be a wiser bet than taking the risky plunge into Saudi football.
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