Tottenham close in on Iliman Ndiaye as Cody Gakpo chooses Manchester City

Tottenham Hotspur have reached an agreement with Everton for the transfer of Senegal forward Iliman Ndiaye, while long-term target Cody Gakpo has opted for Manchester City.

The deal for Ndiaye was reported on Sunday by The Telegraph and The Athletic, among other outlets. The transfer fee has not been disclosed, and the 26-year-old must still complete personal terms with Tottenham before undergoing a medical.

Ndiaye has impressed during his recent seasons with Everton, earning a reputation as one of the Toffees’ most influential attacking players. Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi is understood to have moved quickly for the Senegal international after it became clear that Gakpo would not be joining the club.

Tottenham had pursued Gakpo for an extended period, but the Netherlands forward has instead set his sights on a move to Manchester City. That decision prompted De Zerbi to turn his attention to Ndiaye as Tottenham continue to reshape their attack.

There could also be movement between Tottenham and Everton in the opposite direction, with Richarlison reportedly set to return to his former club. The Brazil international, 29, joined Tottenham from Everton four summers ago in a deal worth 60 million euros.

However, Richarlison still has to negotiate the terms of a return and complete a medical. De Zerbi said earlier this week that the forward had told him he wanted to leave Tottenham.

The proposed moves involving Ndiaye and Richarlison are separate transactions. Tottenham’s agreement with Everton for Ndiaye does not depend on Richarlison completing his own transfer.

Tottenham have already invested heavily in their squad during the current window. Last week, they signed Manchester City forwards Savio for 85 million euros and Omar Marmoush on a loan deal that includes a mandatory purchase option.

The club, whose squad includes Micky van de Ven, Jan Paul van Hecke and Xavi Simons, have endured a difficult start to the season. They were beaten 3-0 by Brentford before suffering a 2-0 defeat by Newcastle United.

Ndiaye’s possible arrival would therefore provide another attacking option for De Zerbi as Tottenham look to respond to those early setbacks. The Senegal forward’s move remains subject to the completion of his agreement with the club and his medical, while Richarlison’s proposed return to Everton is also yet to be finalised.