Manchester United's pursuit of Iliman Ndiaye has hit a wall. The Everton playmaker, valued at £70 million, remains a top transfer target for the Red Devils, but their formal interest is effectively frozen. According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the holdup stems directly from the unresolved future of Marcus Rashford at Old Trafford.
United's new sporting structure has made a clear decision: no marquee winger arrivals will be sanctioned until Rashford's status is clarified. With the England international returning from a productive loan spell at Barcelona—where he contributed 14 goals and 14 assists across 49 appearances—his departure remains uncertain. Barcelona chose not to pursue a permanent deal, leaving Rashford set to report for pre-season, effectively blocking the recruitment pathway in wide positions.
Why Ndiaye Represents an Ideal Fit
Ndiaye has flourished since his summer 2024 move from Marseille to Goodison Park. The Senegal international has registered 17 goals and three assists in 71 appearances across all competitions, establishing himself as a cornerstone of David Moyes's tactical framework. His impact extends to the international stage, where he contributed meaningfully during Senegal's World Cup campaign before their round of 32 exit. Romano emphasised the difficulty of any potential deal: "It's important to remember that Ndiaye would be really expensive. He's a crucial, crucial player" for Everton.
Manchester United are not alone in their admiration. Aston Villa have already held preliminary conversations about the 26-year-old, while several foreign clubs have made inquiries. Everton face no immediate pressure to sell, meaning they can command a premium fee whenever interest becomes concrete. United's caution about inflating their wage bill—particularly with Financial Fair Play compliance in mind—further complicates their position. The club has already added Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans, Karl Darlow, and Tynan Thompson this window, yet their ambitions for a statement signing remain on hold pending Rashford's resolution.
Until the Rashford question is settled, United cannot progress beyond informal appreciation of Ndiaye's talents. That window of opportunity may not stay open for long.
