Ex Sheffield United forward pens Premier League deal while Spanish club want Blades keeper | OneFootball

It has now been officially confirmed that the former Sheffield United star Iliman Ndiaye has signed a five-year deal for Everton after spending just one season at his boyhood club Olympique Marseille.

Iliman Ndiaye signs for Everton; Sheffield United won’t be entitled to sell-on fee

The Blades did have a number of clauses written into their £20 million sale of the Senegal international, one of which was a sell-on clause. However, because Marseille have sold the 24-year-old for no profit, it is thought that United won’t be entitled to any money from this deal involving Marseille and Everton.

In his debut season in France, he made a significant impact, despite some people claiming he “flopped”. He featured in 30 Ligue 1 matches with 19 starts, during which he scored three goals and provided five assists. His influence extended to the Europa League, where he appeared 14 times and added another goal to his tally.

Renowned for his exceptional passing accuracy, he ranked in the 99th percentile among forwards, showcasing his ability to execute precise and effective passes. Notably, his creativity was evident with a 78th percentile ranking for expected assists per 90, underlining his knack for setting up scoring opportunities. His offensive contributions were further highlighted by an 82nd percentile ranking for shot-creating actions, primarily through his adeptness in one-on-one situations.

He often drops deep between the lines to receive and distribute the ball, displaying his prowess in linking play and eluding defenders. His reputation as one of Europe’s premier dribblers was solidified by rankings in the top percentile for successful take-ons and carries into the final third. His role as a progressive force was undeniable, averaging over eight progressive passes received per 90, nearly four progressive passes per 90, and over three progressive carries per 90, placing him in the top tiers of progressive playmakers across the whole of Europe.

Sean Dyche will love Ndiaye at Everton because he works tirelessly off the ball and applies smart pressure on the opposition defenders and goalkeeper when they’re in possession.

Sheffield United’s Croatian goalkeeper #13 Ivo Grbic catches the ball from a corner kick during the English Premier League football match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Sheffield United at the Molineux stadium in Wolverhampton, central England on February 25, 2024. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP)

Spanish club want Blades stopper Ivo Grbic

It is being reported by Spanish news outlet AS that Leganes are interested in signing Ivo Grbic, but they are yet to make contact with the club. Leganes are facing the possibility of losing their main shot-stopper this summer so they have already identified several goalkeeper targets.

The former Atletico Madrid man is said to be keen on a return to Spain after a horrendous short spell at Sheffield United in the Premier League. The Croatian player was acquired by the Blades from Atletico Madrid during the January transfer window for approximately £2 million. Unfortunately, the move has not been successful; the 28-year-old allowed 25 goals in nine Premier League matches, finishing the season with a -10.31 goals prevention stat. This means he conceded ten more goals than expected based on the quality of shots he faced.

Levante are another Spanish club that have been credited with interest.

Sheffield United eyeing double swoop for Peterborough United stars

Sheffield United are actively pursuing a double deal to acquire Peterborough United talents Harrison Burrows and Ricky-Jade Jones.

Ricky-Jade Jones, 21, had an impressive campaign last season, scoring ten goals and providing four assists while playing as both a left winger and striker. His performances have caught the attention of Premier League giants such as Manchester United, Liverpool, and Arsenal, indicating his high potential. However, a move to a top Championship club like Sheffield United would be a more realistic next step, offering him the opportunity to showcase his talent at a higher level.

Harrison Burrows, 22, has been on Sheffield United’s radar for several weeks. According to the Peterborough Telegraph, Burrows was scheduled for a medical with the Blades, suggesting that negotiations are well advanced. Reports indicate that a “lucrative” contract has been agreed upon, bringing the deal closer to completion.

The acquisition of both Jones and Burrows would significantly strengthen Sheffield United’s squad as they aim for promotion from the Championship.