Everton have set their sights on rising Senegalese talent Assane Diao as they explore the prospect of building a potent attacking partnership with Iliman Ndiaye, already a key figure at the Merseyside club.
The 19-year-old forward, currently plying his trade at Serie A side Como, has quickly established himself as a standout performer under the guidance of Spanish manager Cesc Fàbregas.
Since joining the Italian outfit in January, Diao has scored 10 goals and provided four assists across 34 appearances—form that has inevitably attracted interest from across Europe.
Everton are among the clubs making enquiries, with reports confirming that the Toffees have already submitted an offer for the young forward—an approach that Como have rejected.
The Premier League side, however, are unlikely to walk away, especially given the potential they see in pairing Diao with Ndiaye in a forward line brimming with pace, flair, and Senegalese synergy.
The Merseyside outfit already boasts a strong Senegalese influence with veteran midfielder Idrissa Gana Guèye and Ndiaye, and the addition of Diao would further deepen that West African connection.
While no official bid has been accepted, the Premier League club is expected to continue negotiations in the coming weeks as they look to strengthen their squad before the start of the new campaign.
Despite the growing interest, Como are determined to retain their prized asset. Fàbregas is reportedly keen to keep Diao at the club for at least another season, viewing him as a central figure in his tactical plans.
The Spaniard’s trust in the player was on display this weekend when Diao returned from a three-month injury layoff in a high-profile friendly against Ajax.
Having fractured his right foot earlier this year, Diao’s comeback was eagerly anticipated, and he was handed a place in the starting XI during Como’s 3-0 victory over the Dutch side.
He featured for the first 45 minutes and impressed with his sharp movement and technical quality—encouraging signs for both his club and national team manager Pape Thiaw.
Diao’s return comes at a crucial time for Senegal, who are preparing for two key fixtures in September as part of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
The Lions of Teranga are set to face Sudan and DR Congo, and Diao’s presence could provide a much-needed boost in attack.
Beyond his national team ambitions, Diao is also preparing for another significant test with Como. The Italian side is scheduled to face FC Barcelona in the prestigious Gamper Trophy on August 10.
The encounter, which will take place at the Johan Cruyff Stadium, marks the first-ever meeting between the two clubs—both with rich histories spanning over a century.
Como will be represented by not only Diao but also former Barcelona players Sergi Roberto and Alex Valle, now part of Fàbregas’ project. For Diao, it will be a high-profile opportunity to showcase his talent on a European stage, with scouts from across the continent expected to be in attendance.
As Everton monitor his progress and prepare their next move, Assane Diao’s stock continues to rise. Whether he stays in Italy or makes the leap to the Premier League, one thing is certain—the young Senegalese forward is firmly on the radar of Europe’s elite.
