Why Everton must be worried about deadline drama with Iliman Ndiaye transfer tug-of-war

Everton could lose Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City or Arsenal before the transfer window closes.

The two Premier League giants have been linked with a move for the Senegal international ahead of the 1 September deadline.

David Moyes has heavily relied on the 26-year-old, who joined the club from Olympique Lyon for around £17million in 2024.

Ndiaye's contract saga has rumbled on at Hill Dickinson Stadium, prompting Man City and Arsenal to explore a deal.

As things stand, the Senegalese winger still has three years left at the Toffees, giving them some power over their player.

The attacker's situation is still worth watching closely, as those in Manchester and North London can make the Merseyside outfit think twice.

How Iliman Ndiaye situation could unfold at Everton

Man City and Arsenal are interested in Ndiaye, with the Toffees looking to get £80m for him.

With both teams capable of matching the Blues' valuation, they will certainly need to pay a premium in the final days, with a late transfer tug-of-war possibly on the cards.

If The Friedkin Group do end up cashing in on the Senegal international, fans will expect an adequate replacement in L3.

In recent weeks, the Merseyside outfit have seemingly struggled to pull off necessary deals, with supporters still left waiting for a new right-back, centre-forward and Jack Grealish.

Ndiaye's exit will add another task on the recruitment department's table.

The American owners have been reluctant to back Moyes over the last few windows and can't be trusted to replace an important part of the squad.

What Iliman Ndiaye exit would mean at Hill Dickinson Stadium

It wouldn't be surprising to see Everton not try to replace Ndiaye's influence in the team.

The Toffees spent heavily on Tyler Dibling last summer and may already see the former Southampton youngster as the Senegalese star's successor despite his struggles in L3.

Brennan Johnson has also moved to the Blues from Crystal Palace to bolster Moyes' options out wide.

Tyrique George has shown promise on the left-wing and could have a big part to play in the coming future.

Merlin Rohl can also play out wide, as he showed towards the end of last season.

TFG haven't given supporters in Merseyside much reason to have high hopes so far.