EXCLUSIVE: Aston Villa Beat Al-Hilal and Manchester United to Sign Iliman Ndiaye in £55m Blockbuster
In one of the most explosive transfer twists of the summer, Aston Villa have successfully hijacked negotiations to complete the signing of Everton’s star attacker **Iliman Ndiaye**. Full agreement has been reached between all parties on a deal worth **£55 million**, with the Senegal international committing his long-term future to Villa Park on a **five-year contract**.
Here we go!
A High-Stakes Transfer Battle
The 26-year-old playmaker had been at the center of a furious three-way tug-of-war in recent weeks. Saudi Pro League heavyweights **Al-Hilal** submitted a financially lucrative proposal to lure Ndiaye to the Middle East, while **Manchester United** made late contact with Everton to assess terms for a potential hijack of their own.
However, Unai Emery’s side moved with clinical speed to win the race. Aston Villa agreed to match Everton’s £55 million valuation in full, structuring an attractive package that clinched Ndiaye’s green light over competing offers.
> “Aston Villa acted with maximum speed once the opportunity opened up,” revealed sources close to the negotiations. “Unai Emery personally spoke with Ndiaye to outline his central role in Villa’s tactical project, which proved decisive.”
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Why Emery Targeted Ndiaye
Ndiaye has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most electrifying multi-functional attackers during his spell at Everton. Renowned for his close control, dribbling ability, and sharp output in the final third, the Senegalese international featured across the attacking line for the Toffees, operating effectively as a winger, second striker, and central attacking midfielder.
His standout performances for both club and country—including decisive displays for Senegal on the international stage—made him one of the most sought-after forward profiles in England this window.
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Key Transfer Summary:
• Player: Iliman Ndiaye (Senegal / Everton)
• Transfer Fee: £55 million
• Contract: 5 years (until June 2031)
• Beaten Suitors: Manchester United, Al-Hilal
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For Villa, Ndiaye’s arriving skill set adds much-needed flare, tactical versatility, and ball-carrying dynamism to an ambitious squad preparing for another demanding domestic and European campaign.
What Comes Next?
Everton have granted Ndiaye permission to undergo medical tests with Aston Villa, with official announcements expected shortly once paperwork is finalized between the clubs.
The loss represents a major blow for Everton, who fought hard to retain their star forward, but the £55 million fee provides crucial capital to reinvest across their squad. For Manchester United and Al-Hilal, attention must now turn to alternative attacking targets after missing out on one of the summer’s prime targets.
Aston Villa supporters can look forward to seeing their new £55m marquee signing unveiled at Villa Park in the coming days.
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