Newcastle United have been watching Iliman Ndiaye ahead of the summer transfer window.
That is according to the Sheffield Star, who state that Newcastle are now keen on Ndiaye after scouting the Sheffield United star.
Eddie Howe failed to sign Sander Berge at the start of the year, and has now seemingly turned his attention to his teammate.
The 23-year-old is enjoying a fantastic season in the second tier, and is playing a big role in the Blades’ bid to secure promotion back to the Premier League.
They were relegated in 2021, but now look well placed to return to the top flight. Paul Heckingbottom’s side are currently second in the league with 10 games to go, but have Middlesbrough breathing down their necks.
But Sheffield United are still in pole position to secure automatic promotion, and that is largely down to the efforts of their Senegalese superstar.
Iliman Ndiaye has been sensational this season
Ndiaye has played the majority of the season as a supporting striker at Bramall Lane, and is enjoying his most productive campaign ever in front of goal.
He currently has 11 league goals to his name, as well as seven assists. That makes him one of the most productive players in the division, with his most recent goal coming in a 1-0 win over Reading.
The Senegal international has also played a part in the Blades’ cup run, with Sheffield United set to take on Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup quarter final this weekend.
A trip to Wembley could be on the horizon, and that is partially down to Ndiaye. He scored the winning goal in the previous round as Heckingbottom’s men dumped Tottenham out of the competition in embarrassing fashion.
His goal that night was spectacular, weaving through the Spurs defence before firing a low drive beyond Fraser Forster. It was a wonderful strike that showed Ndiaye’s invention and composure – traits that Newcastle must admire.
Newcastle approach might depend on promotion
The Magpies have joined the list of Premier League clubs that are keeping an eye on Ndiaye, who has 12 goals and eight assists in all competitions. Everton and West Ham are also credited with an interest by the Sheffield Star.
However, Newcastle’s interest in the attacker might depend on where the Blades are next season. If they secure promotion to the Premier League, they will surely be reluctant to let go of him.
On the flip side, Ndiaye’s current contract expires in 2024 meaning they might be forced to cash in this summer. There is also a transfer embargo at Bramall Lane, which complicates matters further.
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