Key Points:
- Arsenal Inquiry for Iliman Ndiaye: It has been reported that Arsenal have made a last-minute inquiry to Everton regarding the acquisition of attacking player Iliman Ndiaye, thereby jeopardizing Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of the player.
- Principle Agreement Reached: Tottenham Hotspur have already reached a principle agreement with Everton for the acquisition of Iliman Ndiaye, who has been estimated to cost around £60 million.
- Part Exchange Deal: Tottenham Hotspur’s deal with Everton involved forward Richarlison making a move to Everton.
- Manchester City Involvement: Manchester City was also interested in signing Ndiaye; however, the Premier League champions have now shifted their focus on Liverpool’s winger Cody Gakpo.
- Everton’s Perspective: Everton have not closed the door for negotiations as top-tier teams finalize their roster in preparation for the closure of the transfer window.
Arsenal (North London News) August 31, 2026 – Arsenal have reportedly made a late enquiry to Everton regarding the availability of forward Iliman Ndiaye, creating potential disruption to rival Tottenham Hotspur’s ongoing transfer negotiations.
As reported by The Sun, Arsenal have registered their interest with a shock enquiry for the 26-year-old Senegal international, setting up a late North London battle ahead of the transfer deadline.
Prior to Arsenal’s intervention, Tottenham Hotspur had been in advanced negotiations with Everton. As reported by TEAMtalk, Spurs were in position to complete a deal worth approximately £60 million after agreeing initial framework terms with the Merseyside club.
What Are The Specific Terms Of Tottenham’s Deal With Everton?
Tottenham’s pursuit of Ndiaye included a parallel transaction involving Brazilian international Richarlison.
As reported by Goal.com, Tottenham agreed in principle to allow Richarlison to return to Goodison Park in a separate deal, paving the way for Ndiaye’s move to North London under managerial direction from Tottenham’s technical leadership.
As reported by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano on social media platform X, Spurs had been actively finalising personal terms with Ndiaye’s representation following progress between the two clubs. However, Arsenal’s late contact with Everton has introduced competition for the player’s signature.
How Did Manchester City’s Transfer Strategy Influence The Ndiaye Deal?
Interest in Ndiaye expanded across multiple Premier League clubs during the summer window. Manchester City had monitored the player’s progress at Everton as part of their dynamic front-line recruitment strategy.
As reported by TEAMtalk, Manchester City shifted their primary focus towards Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo. This pivot allowed Roberto De Zerbi and Tottenham’s management to push forward negotiations for Ndiaye without direct counter-bidding from the Premier League champions.
Background Of The Particular Development
Iliman Ndiaye joined Everton following prominent spells at Sheffield United and Olympique de Marseille. His multi-functional role across the attacking third made him a primary transfer target for several top-tier European clubs during the 2025–26 and 2026–27 campaigns.
Tottenham Hotspur sought offensive reinforcement following squad adjustments and European qualification demands. The inclusion of Richarlison in parallel negotiations provided Everton with an experienced Premier League forward while enabling Tottenham to restructure their dynamic attacking positions.
Arsenal’s late interest comes amidst squad depth evaluations under manager Mikel Arteta as the Gunners prepare for domestic and UEFA Champions League fixtures.
Prediction: How Will This Transfer Development Affect North London Supporters And Clubs?
If Arsenal complete a hijack of the Ndiaye transfer, it will intensify the North London rivalry both on and off the pitch. For Arsenal supporters, acquiring Ndiaye would add versatile depth across the frontline, providing rotation options across multiple competitions.
For Tottenham Hotspur, missing out on a target after reaching an agreement in principle would force the recruitment team to rapidly target alternative options before the window closes, while simultaneously resolving the immediate squad status of Richarlison.
For Everton, a competitive bidding scenario between North London rivals could maximize the total financial yield of Ndiaye’s sale or alter the structure of incoming player deals late in the transfer period.
