The Iliman Ndiaye Transfer Saga Continues

Just as Iliman Ndiaye’s future looked set to continue in the red and white stripes of Sheffield United, Marseille have increased their offer in a bid to secure the talented 23-year-old.

Rumours have been circulating in the last 24 hours that Ndiaye has accepted personal terms with the French giants and will travel to Marseille to complete a medical before signing. 

This comes not long after reports that Sheffield United had offered Ndiaye a club record-breaking contract that would have seen the key man become the Blades’ highest-ever earner. 

In addition to this, it is rumoured that Sheffield United were to be building their team around the skills and abilities of the young forward, even offering him the iconic number 10 shirt, recently vacated by the departure of Blades legend Billy Sharp. 

However, these honours look to be not enough for the Senegalese player as he looks to further advance his career with this five-year deal in Marseille.

Details of the transfer are as of yet not officially confirmed but the speculated fee is said to be estimated at around £20 million + add-ons. 

This will also include a sell-on clause in which Sheffield United would receive 10-20% if the player was to move on from Marseille. French media had reported the transfer fee at around £14 million but recent news states otherwise.

For Ndiaye, this is a huge opportunity. Undoubtedly, the forward will receive a healthy contract offer from Marseille and will also be able to test his ability as a key player in one of Europe’s top teams. 

Also, Marseille is Ndiaye’s boyhood club, meaning this opportunity is a dream come true for the player. 

Very recent videos have been circulating, showcasing Marseille fans waiting at the airport for Ndiaye to arrive, waving flares and chanting his name. It is safe to say the ‘Senegalese Starboy’ will retain his position as a fan favourite in France as he did in Sheffield.

For the Blades, this is a serious blow. The loss of Ndiaye seriously dents their chances of survival in the Premier League. 

The hope now rests on the recruitment team at Sheffield United who look to use some of the money received from the sale of Ndiaye to bolster the rest of the squad. 

This news also comes not long after Sheffield United were almost certain Ndiaye would be staying, with reports suggesting that the Blades had filmed a behind-the-scenes video celebrating the players’ contract re-signing and even the ceremonious handover of the number 10 shirt from club icon Billy Sharp.

All in all, Ndiaye’s captivating two years at Bramall Lane have come to a shocking end and new challenges await the player in his next chapter in France.