The father of Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye has strongly denied reports that the Senegal international has agreed to join Saudi Pro League heavyweights Al-Hilal. In spite of serious interest and a highly lucrative salary proposal from the Middle East, his father has insisted that the 26-year-old is fully concentrated on his career in Europe and his ambitions with the national team.

Al-Hilal are said to be making a strong attempt to sign Everton winger Ndiaye this summer in order to strengthen Simone Inzaghi’s attacking options. As per Spanish publication Marca, Al-Hilal have marked out Ndiaye as a leading target for the wide positions because of his tactical versatility. At the same time, a separate report from Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat stated that the club are ready to lure the 26-year-old with a wage package worth £270,000 per week.

Reacting to the growing transfer talk, the player’s father, Mouhamadou Abdoulaye Ndiaye, issued a clear statement to shut down the rumours. In comments quoted by Senegalese outlet wiwsport.com, he said he had spoken directly to his son about the offer from the Middle East: "Many people called me to tell me that Iliman was going to leave. But rest assured, he is not going anywhere."

Abdoulaye went on to say: "He called me this morning. I even teased him with a few words in Arabic, and we laughed about it. He let me know that he had no intention of going to Saudi Arabia."

Since joining Everton from Marseille in July 2024 on a five-year contract, Ndiaye — who has recorded 44 goals and 23 assists over the course of his career — is placing sporting progress and his international ambitions ahead of financial rewards, according to his father.

Abdoulaye added: "He still has plans. He knows he has to keep working harder. Senegal needs him, just as he needs Senegal. Everything he does today, he does for his country. He knows he can earn a lot of money there, but he also thinks his level could drop.

"He's not the type to prioritise money over his career. His goal is to win another Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal, win the World Cup, and one day become a Ballon d'Or winner. That's what motivates him today."

This firm position will come as a major boost for Everton as they seek to retain an important attacking player before the start of the new season. The Toffees are in a strong position, with Ndiaye tied down to a long-term deal at Goodison Park. He will now look to remain a central figure for Everton, who open their Premier League campaign at home against Crystal Palace on August 22.