Everton Signs Senegalese International Iliman Ndiaye From Marseille

Iliman Ndiaye has finalised a £16 million (€18.5 million) transfer from Marseille to Everton. The Senegalese international has committed to a five-year contract with the Toffees. This makes him Everton's third acquisition of the transfer window, following Tim Iroegbunam from Aston Villa and Jack Harrison, who rejoined on loan from Leeds United.

The 24-year-old only joined Marseille last year, having previously made his mark in the Championship with Sheffield United. Despite his potential, he managed just three goals in Ligue 1 last season. Everton hopes Ndiaye can replicate his Championship form, where he was instrumental in Sheffield United's promotion in the 2022-23 season.

Ndiaye ranked fourth in the Championship for goal contributions that season, with 14 goals and 10 assists. His dribbling skills were also notable, completing 111 dribbles, just behind Patrick Roberts (112) and Joao Pedro (116). He converted 20% of his shots during that campaign.

Sean Dyche's squad is in dire need of an attacking boost. They were the second-lowest scorers in the league with only 40 goals and underperformed their expected goals (xG) by scoring 15 fewer goals than anticipated (40 goals from 54.9 xG).

"I am so pleased to be an Everton player," Ndiaye told evertontv. "I'm so excited and can't wait to get going. As a player, I like to dribble, show skills and get the fans out their seats. I want to score goals and get assists, but I also like to work hard."

Ndiaye continued, "I love running, chasing the ball, getting the team high up the pitch. As a striker, you're the first defender. I love doing that bit."

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With Ndiaye's arrival, Everton aims to enhance their attacking options significantly. The club is optimistic that his dynamic style will invigorate their forward line and help them achieve better results in the upcoming season.

This transfer marks a significant step for both Ndiaye and Everton as they look forward to a successful partnership on the pitch.