Manchester United’s search for another left-sided attacker has suffered a major setback, with Al-Hilal now appearing to hold the advantage in the race for Iliman Ndiaye.
The Everton forward would suit Michael Carrick’s plans because he can carry the ball through pressure, create chances from wide areas and operate behind a striker.
United have improved their midfield during the current window, but their attack still needs greater balance and unpredictability on the left.
Ndiaye offers those qualities, yet Everton’s valuation and the financial power of the Saudi club make this an increasingly difficult deal for the Old Trafford side.
Why Man United are falling behind in the race
According to Football Insider, Man United are now unlikely to complete the deal because Everton want around £75 million and Al-Hilal are prepared to meet their valuation.
The Saudi side can also offer a significantly larger salary, leaving United unable, or unwilling, to compete financially.
That is frustrating because Carrick has identified the left wing as an area requiring reinforcement.
United have already added Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, while Karl Darlow has strengthened the goalkeeping department, as shown by the club’s official summer transfer tracker.
Their window has therefore addressed important weaknesses, but it remains incomplete without another attacker who can beat defenders and contribute across several positions.
Walking away would be the smarter decision
Ndiaye would bring flair, intensity and Premier League experience, but £75 million is a major fee for a player who would not be guaranteed to transform United’s attack immediately.
Al-Hilal’s involvement changes the entire negotiation because Everton no longer need to lower their demands or accept a heavily structured offer from Old Trafford.
United could still have one advantage if the player prioritises remaining in Europe, but they should not allow that possibility to drag on and limit their alternatives.
Missing out would leave a clear gap on the left, although overspending simply to defeat a Saudi offer would represent poor squad planning.
United are right to admire Ndiaye but should set a firm limit. Their midfield recruitment has been encouraging, and the next move must be equally disciplined.
A cheaper winger with stronger end product could provide better value while leaving funds available for the left-back position Carrick also wants to reinforce.
Everton prepare offer for Manchester United wonderkid in ambitious summer move
Open Letter to Manchester United
To the Manchester United Management,
I respectfully urge the club to give serious and immediate consideration to the acquisition of Mika Godts, a genuinely exceptional young talent whose profile aligns perfectly with the modern attacking identity Manchester United seeks to rebuild.
At just 21 years of age, Godts has already distinguished himself as one of the most electrifying wingers in European football. His performances for Ajax and the Belgium national setup demonstrate a rare blend of blistering pace, intelligent movement, and a remarkably sharp eye for goal. He is not merely fast — he is explosive. His acceleration over short distances destabilizes defensive structures, and his ability to glide past markers with fearless dribbling makes him a constant threat in transition and in tight spaces.
Godts combines creativity with precision. He dismantles defensive lines through incisive passing, rapid changes of direction, and an instinctive understanding of space. His game intelligence is extraordinary for a player of his age; he reads the rhythm of play quickly, anticipates openings before they fully emerge, and consistently positions himself to deliver decisive contributions. His growing record of goals and assists reflects this maturity, as does his reputation for producing spectacular finishes and crucial goals in high‑pressure moments.
What sets him apart is his elusiveness. Godts can maneuver through congested areas with ease, create scoring opportunities out of nothing, and adapt fluidly across the front line. His right‑footed threat from the left flank offers United a dynamic, unpredictable attacking angle — the kind of profile that elevates both individual brilliance and collective play.