View: Everton star's contract should be Friedkin's priority over Grealish transfer

Iliman Ndiaye‘s contract should be the priority for Everton, rather than a transfer for Jack Grealish.

The Blues are reportedly in talks over a second loan or a permanent deal to bring the Manchester City star back to Hill Dickinson Stadium next season.

Grealish has formed a brilliant connection with supporters, and he has also contributed on the pitch, with eight goal contributions.

However, Ndiaye is being chased by several clubs, with the likes of Manchester United and Inter Milan interested in the Toffees star.

The Friedkin Group have a pivotal summer at Everton, and if they had to choose between keeping the Senegal star and signing the Englishman, the choice is clear.

Why might Ndiaye need to be a priority?

Ndiaye has been crucial for Everton this season, especially in Grealish’s absence, since he has been out with a foot injury since January.

Securing the 26-year-old to fresh terms should be the focus, as he is younger, quicker and produces more often in front of goal.

Ideally, they could do both, especially with Ndiaye understood to be on 50 per cent less than the highest earners, per The Athletic.

His current deal does not expire until summer 2029, but he may well want a pay rise with the transfer interest that is being shown.

Grealish will likely still want a huge wage packet, with the Merseysiders already reportedly contributing £225,000-per-week at the moment.

If it comes down to picking between the two due to financial pressures, the AFCON winner should be prioritised.

How do Ndiaye and Grealish compare this season?

Ndiaye has played 27 times this campaign, with six goals and three assists, while Grealish has featured in 22 matches and contributed two goals and six assists.

The Senegal international averages 0.66 shots on target per 90 minutes compared to 0.47 for the former Aston Villa ace, per Fbref.

Ndiaye is more available than the loan star, playing a total of 2,194 minutes in all competitions, as opposed to Grealish’s tally of 1,718.

The younger man also betters his elder from a defensive aspect, winning 1.39 tackles per 90 compared to 0.79 for the England World Cup hopeful.

While the priority clearly should be keeping Ndiaye around, if the Friedkin’s can manage to do both, it would be a major show of ambition, as they prepare for a potential season in Europe.

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