Liverpool’s search for attacking reinforcements has taken a sensational turn, with reports emerging of a potential raid on one of their fiercest rivals.
Bolstering Arne Slot’s attacking options in January is evidently something Richard Hughes and Co. are keen to do, with Liverpool being linked with a move for Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo.
With Federico Chiesa evidently not being fancied by Slot and a direct replacement for Luis Diaz not being brought in over the summer, it is clear that another winger would be a welcome addition at Anfield.
However, the latest wide man to be linked with a move to the Reds would undoubtedly be the most controversial choice, given the fact that he currently plays for Everton.
Liverpool showing interest in Iliman Ndiaye
The prospect of a player moving directly between Everton and Liverpool is one of football’s ultimate taboos, but this is seemingly not enough to discourage the Reds.
According to reports from Foot Mercato on November 29, Liverpool are one of three clubs to have made enquiries about Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye.
The 25-year-old Senegalese international has been a revelation since his move from Marseille, scoring 15 times in 52 appearances and becoming a fan favourite at Everton.
This interest is far from simple posturing, with the report stating that Liverpool, alongside Manchester City and Tottenham, has held initial talks with the player’s representatives.
Although no concrete negotiations have started between the clubs, Liverpool have shown their desire to bring Ndiaye to the red half of Merseyside.
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Iliman Ndiaye could do what no player has done in 23 years
For context, such a move is not entirely without precedent, though it is exceedingly rare.
The last player to cross the divide was Portuguese defender Abel Xavier, who joined Liverpool from Everton in January 2002. Before that, Nick Barmby’s £6m switch in 2000 caused uproar, a move that would more closely resemble a potential deal for Ndiaye.
Ndiaye is a versatile forward with creativity and a proven track record of goals and assists in the Premier League.
His composure in front of the goal and his current form will surely be attractive for Liverpool for a possible January inquiry. However, the immense friction of negotiating with Everton and the inevitable backlash from both sets of supporters make this one of the most complex deals imaginable.
While the initial talks with the player’s camp mark a fascinating first step, this potential transfer saga may only be just beginning.
READ MORE: Richard Hughes ‘overruled’ Arne Slot in the summer as ‘controversial’ transfer call made
