Al Hilal has opened talks with Everton regarding the transfer of winger Iliman Ndiaye, as the player remains in contract negotiations with the Merseyside club.
The 26-year-old Senegal international has three years left on his Everton contract but has expressed a desire to play in the Champions League, which could influence his decision to leave.
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Al Hilal, after recently signing Crysencio Summerville from West Ham, is looking to further strengthen its squad, with Ndiaye emerging as a key target this summer, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Ndiaye was a crucial player for Everton last season, contributing six goals and three assists in 32 Premier League appearances.
The club values him highly.
Interest from English clubs, including Manchester United and Aston Villa, has stalled. Manchester United's pursuit is complicated by uncertainty surrounding Marcus Rashford's future.
Romano noted, "Iliman Ndiaye at Everton is another player they like, but Manchester United are not progressing due to the Rashford situation."
He added that Ndiaye is expected to be expensive and very important to Everton.
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Everton manager David Moyes has shown reluctance to sell Ndiaye, emphasizing his value to the team.
Contract talks have yet to produce a new deal, leaving the player's future uncertain.
Journalist Sacha Tavolieri reported that Ndiaye is a secondary target for Al Hilal if they fail to sign Ousmane Dembele from Paris Saint-Germain.
Ndiaye's representatives have already engaged in early discussions with the Saudi club.
Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes, expected to join Al Hilal soon, is reportedly influencing the interest in Ndiaye, viewing him as a valuable asset for the club's ambitions in Saudi Arabia.
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Meanwhile, Everton continues to work on other transfers, including the potential signing of 19-year-old attacker Ollie Dewsbury for their Under-21 squad.
