Manchester City Hijack Ndiaye Deal and Chase Enzo Fernández 2026

Manchester City are set to bolster their attack by buying Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye for up to £65m and have opened talks with Chelsea over a deal to sign Enzo Fernández. This double transfer swoop could reshape the Premier League title race as City look to reinforce their squad before the deadline.

The reigning champions acted swiftly after their attempts to land Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo collapsed. City have now agreed a fee of £60m plus £5m in add-ons with Everton, and the Senegal international is set to undergo a medical. The move hijacks Tottenham’s deal for Ndiaye, who had seemed destined for north London after Spurs agreed a deal in principle on Sunday.

Why City Moved for Ndiaye

City’s interest in Ndiaye was registered last week, but they accelerated their pursuit once Liverpool pulled out of an £85m deal for Gakpo. The 26-year-old has been one of Everton’s most important players this season, and his departure leaves the Toffees scrambling to find a replacement before the window shuts on Tuesday night.

Ndiaye’s versatility and pace make him an ideal fit for Pep Guardiola’s system. He can play across the front line, and his ability to press high and create chances aligns with City’s tactical demands. The Senegal international has impressed with his dribbling and finishing, making him a valuable addition to an already star-studded attack.

Spurs’ Reaction and Mudryk Loan

Tottenham have moved on to other attacking targets and, in a surprise development, are poised to sign Mykhailo Mudryk on loan from Chelsea. The Ukraine winger is free to play again after his doping ban was resolved earlier this summer. Mudryk played for Roberto De Zerbi at Shakhtar Donetsk and favours a reunion with the Spurs manager.

Richarlison, who was poised to move to Everton as part of the Ndiaye deal, released an emotional statement on social media saying he would not allow his future to be decided for him. The Brazilian is cold on a move to Everton and is currently expected to stay at Spurs.

Enzo Fernández Talks with Chelsea

In addition to Ndiaye, City have opened talks with Chelsea over a deal to sign Enzo Fernández. The Argentine World Cup winner has been a key figure for Chelsea since his record move from Benfica, but City are eager to add more creativity and control to their midfield.

Fernández’s passing range and ability to dictate tempo would provide an ideal long-term replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, who is entering the twilight of his career. However, Chelsea are unlikely to let him go cheaply, and any deal would likely be a loan with an option to buy, given the financial constraints of the January window.

Potential Impact on the Title Race

City’s aggressive moves signal their intent to close the gap on league leaders Arsenal. With Ndiaye adding firepower and Fernández potentially bolstering the midfield, City could become even more formidable in the second half of the season.

For Everton, losing Ndiaye is a significant blow. The club has little time to find a replacement, and their survival hopes could hinge on how they reinvest the £65m fee. Spurs, meanwhile, will hope Mudryk can rediscover the form that made him one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.

Comparison of Key Transfers

Key Takeaways

• Manchester City have agreed a £65m deal for Iliman Ndiaye, hijacking Tottenham’s move.
• City have opened talks with Chelsea for Enzo Fernández, potentially reshaping their midfield.
• Tottenham are set to sign Mykhailo Mudryk on loan from Chelsea, while Richarlison stays.
• Everton face a race against time to replace Ndiaye before the transfer window closes.

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