Iliman Ndiaye’s father shuts down Al-Hilal transfer rumours with clear Everton stance

Iliman Ndiaye’s father has dismissed reports suggesting the Everton winger has agreed to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, insisting the Senegal international has no intention of leaving European football.

Despite growing speculation linking the 26-year-old with a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia, his family has firmly rejected the claims, stressing that Ndiaye remains focused on achieving his sporting ambitions.

Al-Hilal step up pursuit

Saudi giants Al-Hilal have reportedly identified Ndiaye as one of their priority attacking targets this summer as Simone Inzaghi continues reshaping his squad.

According to reports, the Saudi Pro League club are prepared to offer the Everton forward a staggering salary worth around £270,000 per week in an effort to lure him away from Goodison Park.

The Senegal international’s versatility across the front line is understood to have made him one of Al-Hilal’s preferred transfer targets.

Father dismisses transfer speculation

However, Ndiaye’s father, Mouhamadou Abdoulaye Ndiaye, has poured cold water on the rumours, revealing he spoke directly with his son amid the growing speculation.

Speaking to Senegalese outlet wiwsport.com, he said:

“Many people called me to tell me that Iliman was going to leave. But rest assured, he is not going anywhere.”

He added that the conversation quickly put an end to any uncertainty.

“He called me this morning. I even teased him with a few words in Arabic, and we laughed about it. He let me know that he had no intention of going to Saudi Arabia.”

Sporting ambition comes first

Ndiaye joined Everton from Marseille in the summer of 2024 on a five-year contract and remains committed to continuing his development in Europe.

According to his father, financial rewards are not the player’s primary motivation, with success for both club and country taking precedence.

“He still has plans. He knows he has to keep working harder. Senegal needs him, just as he needs Senegal. Everything he does today, he does for his country.”

He continued:

“He knows he can earn a lot of money there, but he also thinks his level could drop.

“He’s not the type to prioritise money over his career. His goal is to win another Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal, win the World Cup, and one day become a Ballon d’Or winner. That’s what motivates him today.”

Everton receive major boost

The comments will come as welcome news for Everton, who view Ndiaye as one of the club’s most influential attacking players.

With the transfer window still open, Al-Hilal may continue monitoring the situation, but Ndiaye’s camp has made its position clear: the winger remains fully committed to Everton and determined to pursue his biggest footballing ambitions in Europe before considering any move elsewhere.

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