Manchester United Planning Surprise Swoop For Top Everton Talent

Manchester United are considering a shock move for Everton midfielder Iliman Ndiaye as part of their continued rebuild.

There has been widespread criticism of the transfer policy at Old Trafford in recent seasons.

Repeated flops and expensive mistakes have left United wasting huge sums of money for little reward.

But while players such as Antony showed the club what not to do, they have shown a marked improvement in the last year.

United’s transfer doctrine has shifted away from expensive, unproven youngsters and major gambles.

Instead, they have acquired proven Premier League players and experiences pro’s.

With Casemiro’s exit at the end of the season, bringing in more experience will be vital – something the club have already been working on.

Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have been superb signings this season, with the latter scoring a stunning winner at league leaders Arsenal last weekend.

Patrick Dorgu’s injury may have put a dampener on that result, but United have continued their excellent start under interim boss Michael Carrick.

And it now looks like they are plotting a raid for another highly-rated Premier League star.

Manchester United Interested In Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye

Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye has been a shining light for the Toffees in recent seasons.

The 25-year-old Senegalese international has scored and created plenty of times since joining Everton two seasons ago.

His performances have drawn attention from several top clubs, but it’s United who now look most keen.

At 19-years-old Iliman Ndiaye was playing Sunday League football for @RisingBallers_ to get himself recognised by scouts.

A few years later he is an AFCON winner

Just goes to show player development is never linear. Talent can be found anywhere. pic.twitter.com/bIJXBcgDk9

— Bence Bocsák (@BenBocsak) January 18, 2026

Ndiaye has scored four goals and provided two assists in 17 Premier League games this season.

He is contracted to Everton until 2029, with David Moyes’s side insisting he is not for sale.

It would therefore take a substantial offer for the Toffees to part with one of their most creative stars.

But United remain extremely interested, and are willing to wait until the summer to complete any deal.

Could Iliman Ndiaye Replace Bruno Fernandes?

A possible reason for United’s interest is the uncertain future of Bruno Fernandes.

The Portuguese star has been pivotal for United since his arrival from Sporting CP in 2020.

But with just one year left on his contract, the club may look to cash in on him to avoid losing him for free.

Ndiasye would not be a like-for-like replacement, but his ability to play centrally as well as on either wing means the Everton man would be a great addition.

If Fernandes leaves, the Senegalese could fill the hole left by Bruno.

And United keep their captain, then Ndiaye can compete for a wide spot with the liked of Cunha, Mbeumo and Dorgu.