Al-Hilal Pursue Iliman Ndiaye as Everton Prepare for Departure

Al-Hilal have stepped up their pursuit of Iliman Ndiaye, with personal terms now agreed between the Saudi Pro League giants and the Everton forward, according to sources speaking to Football Insider.

The deal has been simmering all summer. Now it’s starting to boil.

Personal terms agreed, fee the final hurdle

Al-Hilal have tracked Ndiaye throughout the window after another standout campaign on Merseyside, where the 26-year-old has grown into one of the Premier League’s most watchable attacking talents.

Everton, though, are digging in.

The club are demanding a major fee before they even consider losing a player who cost £15million from Marseille and has since become a central figure in their attack. The Saudi side are described as “accelerating” the move after shaking hands on personal terms with the Senegal international, leaving the transfer fee as the only major obstacle.

On Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, it was revealed that Al-Hilal have now opened direct talks with Everton as they try to push the deal over the line. The Saudi club are understood to be confident, but they still have to meet the valuation of a seller who knows exactly what it stands to lose.

Ndiaye wants out – and Everton know it

Inside Finch Farm, there is no illusion about the player’s stance.

Ndiaye has made it clear he wants to leave and has turned down several new contract offers since the start of the year. That changes the dynamic. Everton may want top dollar, but they are also dealing with a forward whose mind appears set on a new chapter.

Since arriving in 2024, Ndiaye has produced 17 goals and three assists in 71 appearances. The raw numbers only tell part of the story. His ability to carry the ball, to break lines, to light up tight games has made him a fan favourite and a rare creative spark in a side often forced to grind its way through the league.

Losing that profile of player is not just about goals and assists. It’s about identity.

Everton’s replacement plan: eyes on Rowe

David Moyes, back in the Goodison dugout, will not want to be left short in the final third if Ndiaye departs.

Everton’s hierarchy are already working on a succession plan. Former club chief Keith Wyness has told Football Insider that the Toffees are keen on Bologna’s Jonathan Rowe as a potential replacement for the 26-year-old.

Rowe, an England youth international, put together an impressive campaign in Serie A last season, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in 43 appearances. He offers energy, direct running and end product – traits that would help fill the creative void Ndiaye would leave behind.

For Everton, the equation is simple but brutal: cash in on a wantaway star at the right price, then move quickly and decisively in the market.

Al-Hilal believe they are close. Everton insist they will only sell on their terms. One way or another, Ndiaye’s future now looks set to define the final weeks of their summer.