Liverpool Eyes Everton's Ndiaye Amid Rivalry

Liverpool has initiated preliminary discussions with the representatives of Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye, positioning the club among several Premier League rivals eyeing the 25-year-old Senegalese international ahead of the January transfer window. The inquiries, which do not involve direct contact with Everton, highlight Ndiaye's rising profile but face significant obstacles due to the intense Merseyside derby rivalry between the two clubs.

Ndiaye has impressed since joining Everton from Marseille in the summer of 2024 for approximately 20 million pounds. In his first season with the Toffees, he scored 11 goals across all competitions, including nine in the Premier League. This campaign, he has contributed four goals and one assist in 13 top-flight appearances, showcasing his versatility as a right winger, central striker, or number 10. His energetic pressing, dribbling, and chance creation have formed key partnerships within Everton's squad, including with midfielders like Jack Grealish and Idrissa Gueye.

The interest from Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham stems from Ndiaye's ability to elevate attacking lines at elite clubs. Liverpool, under manager Arne Slot, seeks...