Manchester City have confirmed the signing of Senegalese winger Iliman Ndiaye from Everton for a total package reported to reach £65m, including add‑on clauses. The deal was completed after the club submitted a higher offer than Tottenham Hotspur, who had been negotiating with Everton for the same player. City’s medical is scheduled for later this week, with the transfer expected to be finalized before the transfer window closes on Tuesday.
The £65m swoop on Ndiaye
Everton agreed to a base fee of £60m with an additional £5m in performance‑related add‑ons, bringing the total to £65m. The fee reflects Ndiaye’s status as one of the Premier League’s most promising wingers, having impressed with his pace, dribbling ability and eye for goal since joining Everton three seasons ago. At 24 years old, the Senegal international will now join a City side that is looking to refresh its attacking options after a mixed campaign last season.
Why City chose Ndiaye over Tottenham
City’s scouting department identified Ndiaye as a player who can stretch defences with his speed on the flank and provide a direct outlet for the midfield. Tottenham had been close to sealing a deal, but City’s willingness to meet Everton’s valuation and include attractive add‑ons tipped the balance. The move also signals Pep Guardiola’s intent to add depth to a front line that already features Erling Haaland, Phil Foden and Julian Alvarez.
Enzo Fernández: the next target
While the Ndiaye signing was being finalised, City opened preliminary talks with Chelsea about a possible transfer for Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernández. Chelsea have not disclosed a fee, but reports suggest City are prepared to meet a substantial valuation to secure the player. Fernández, 25, has been a key figure for Chelsea this season, offering a blend of defensive solidity and forward thrust that would complement City’s possession‑based style.
What the signings mean for City and rivals
If both deals go through, City will add a dynamic winger and a versatile midfielder, giving Guardiola more tactical flexibility. The arrivals could also force rivals to reassess their own summer strategies, particularly Tottenham, who now miss out on a player they had earmarked as a long‑term solution on the right wing. Everton, meanwhile, will need to reinvest the £65m to replace a player who has been central to their attacking play.
Looking ahead
City’s activity this window underscores a clear ambition: to reinforce the squad ahead of a demanding schedule that includes the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cups. The club’s ability to outbid a direct competitor and simultaneously target a high‑profile midfielder highlights a proactive approach that could shape the balance of power in English football for years to come.
City’s willingness to drop £65m on Ndiaye shows they are not shy about splashing cash to secure the exact profile they need. If they also land Fernández, the squad will be deeper than ever and rivals will struggle to match their firepower.
Ndiaye gives City a natural outlet on the left, allowing Guardiola to switch flanks without losing width. Adding Fernández would strengthen the midfield’s ability to dominate possession and transition quickly, making City’s attack even more lethal.
Preguntas Frecuentes
The deal is reported to be £65m in total, consisting of a £60m base fee plus £5m in add‑on clauses.
Iliman Ndiaye was born on March 27, 2002, making him 24 years old on August 31, 2026.
Yes, City have opened preliminary talks with Chelsea about a possible transfer for Enzo Fernández.