Rising Path of Iliman Ndiaye, Premier League Clubs Take Notice
Ndiaye’s Revival in England
Iliman Ndiaye’s journey from Marseille frustration to Everton resurgence has become one of the Premier League’s most intriguing stories. Foot Mercato highlighted how the Senegalese forward, once short of confidence at the Stade Vélodrome with “4 goals in 46 matches”, took a brave step in 2024 by moving to Goodison Park for €20 million. That decision now looks transformative.
Everton supporters have embraced his flair and work rate. Foot Mercato stressed that he has “had a phenomenal start to his Premier League career”, and that impact was immediate. Nine goals in his first campaign set the tone for what was to come. The Premier League, with its aggression and pace, often exposes players who arrive with limited top flight experience, yet Ndiaye adapted seamlessly. His technical sharpness, his ability to glide between defenders, and his growing presence in the final third have made him vital to David Moyes’ system.
Growing Influence and Improved Output
Now into his second season, Ndiaye appears even more complete. His combination play with high profile teammates has sharpened his decision making, and Foot Mercato notes he already has “four goals and one assist in twelve appearances”. These numbers hint at a forward still climbing. His movement inside and outside the box has matured, and his confidence now reflects the player Everton believed they were signing.
It is not only the goals that stand out. His positioning, his pressing choices, and his willingness to create overloads in wide areas have made him a focal point of Everton’s attacking structure. The number 10 shirt suits him. He looks like someone who has embraced responsibility.
Transfer Battle Looming
Naturally, such progress attracts admirers. Foot Mercato cite clear interest from “Manchester City, Tottenham, and Liverpool”, all monitoring his trajectory ahead of potential 2026 moves. For a player who came through AS Dakar Sacre-Coeur before taking a long route into elite football, it is a remarkable rise.
One source close to the situation insisted that several clubs have been “tracking Ndaiye for months as he continues to develop new levels to his game”. His versatility, ability to link attacks, and proven Premier League mentality make him a compelling option for sides looking to refresh forward lines.
Future Steps
Everton will hope to keep him beyond this season, but the market rarely sleeps. Ndiaye has put himself in the spotlight, and with major clubs scouting long term solutions, his next chapter could become one of the league’s biggest stories in 2026.
Our View, Anfield Index Analysis
From a Liverpool perspective, Iliman Ndiaye’s profile immediately catches the eye. Liverpool supporters remember how Arne Slot reshaped the forward structure during his title winning debut season. With continual speculation around future attacking options, the interest reported by Foot Mercato feels logical. Ndiaye brings creativity, sharp dribbling and an ability to operate across the front line, which suits the fluid approach Slot prefers.
His productivity across two seasons stands out. Four goals and one assist already this campaign, combined with the nine last year, show steady improvement rather than a one season spike. That kind of reliability tends to appeal to Liverpool’s recruitment department, especially when evaluating players entering their mid twenties.
There is also the mentality factor. His decision to leave Marseille to rebuild in England, followed by thriving under pressure at Everton, suggests a player who welcomes difficult environments. Liverpool supporters often admire footballers who climb rather than inherit their way into elite clubs.
The question, of course, is fit. Would he be a long term replacement for someone like Cody Gakpo or a player to rotate across the frontline. What is certain is that Liverpool are watching, and Ndiaye’s upward curve ensures fans will now watch Everton games with an extra layer of interest.
