Al-Hilal are targeting Everton star Iliman Ndiaye. The Saudi club are in talks with the Toffees over the Senegal international, and the deal is said to be ‘very close’.

According to Sky Sport Switzerland, Everton are asking for €80 million along with a further €15 million in bonuses, while the Gulf side are hoping to secure the move for a significantly lower amount.

Even so, there is a belief that both clubs will eventually settle on a fee. Ndiaye is also discussing personal terms. His salary demands to leave the Hill Dickinson Stadium are fairly high, but still considered manageable.

Everton would be parting with an important attacking player if they allow Ndiaye to leave. The 26-year-old recorded six goals and three assists in 32 Premier League appearances.

His versatility across several attacking roles also made him an important asset for Toffees manager David Moyes, who depended on Ndiaye to bring the X-factor his side needed in the final third.

In addition, his tally of 147 take-ons attempted was the highest among all Everton players last season.

Ndiaye was involved in more duels than any of his teammates (409), and he also won the ball back in the final third more often than anyone else in the squad (26 recoveries).

Letting him go would be a major setback for Everton, as there are very few players capable of reproducing what he offers the Merseyside club in attacking areas.

If Everton do sell Ndiaye, they will need an immediate replacement, ideally someone capable of delivering even stronger performances.

One player the club should consider is Bologna’s Jonathan Rowe, who has impressed in Serie A.

The gifted young Englishman scored eight goals and provided five assists in 44 appearances in all competitions, and he could prove to be an excellent signing for the Toffees.

Other options Everton should think about include Matias Fernandez-Pardo and Jean-Matteo Bahoya.