Arsenal assess Iliman Ndiaye situation as Al Hilal target faces transfer tug-of-war

Arsenal have made an approach to establish the situation surrounding Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye, adding a major new complication to Al Hilal’s pursuit of the Senegal international.

The English club are considering several attacking options before the summer transfer window closes and have made an enquiry about Ndiaye’s availability, according to British journalist Ben Jacobs.

Ndiaye is understood to be highly regarded by Arsenal officials, while Al Hilal have also been strongly linked with a move for the 25-year-old. The Saudi Arabian club are looking to strengthen their attacking wide positions in line with the wishes of their coaching staff.

Arsenal’s interest could now lead to direct competition with Al Hilal for a player who has emerged as one of the most prominent attacking targets on the market. The situation remains open, with Ndiaye’s next move likely to be shaped by both sporting considerations and the financial terms on offer.

Al Hilal’s interest developed after Ndiaye turned down a contract renewal proposal from Everton. That decision has increased the possibility of the winger leaving the club in the near future and has prompted interest from more than one potential suitor.

Ndiaye is valued at about £75m, a figure that could make any transfer one of the most significant financial moves of the current window. If Arsenal and Al Hilal proceed with their interest, the size of the asking price is likely to become a central factor in negotiations.

The Saudi Arabian side may also face a challenge in persuading Ndiaye on sporting grounds. The player has previously stated his ambition to play in the UEFA Champions League, a goal that could give Arsenal an advantage in discussions.

That desire would provide Arsenal with a clear sporting argument as they assess whether to pursue the winger, while Al Hilal may have to rely more heavily on the strength of their project and financial offer to convince him.

Ndiaye joined Everton’s attacking ranks as an important wide option and has become the focus of growing transfer attention after declining to extend his contract. His position has consequently attracted the interest of clubs in different leagues, with Arsenal now investigating a possible deal and Al Hilal continuing to seek reinforcements for their attack.

The scale of the valuation means the eventual outcome could have a significant impact on the summer transfer market. Arsenal’s enquiry has introduced another serious contender for Ndiaye, while Al Hilal must now compete with a club capable of offering the player a route towards his stated ambition of playing in the Champions League.

No agreement has been confirmed, but the contest for Ndiaye’s signature has intensified as the transfer window approaches its conclusion.