Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has set the record straight on Iliman Ndiaye’s situation, which may come as a major boost to Manchester United.
Al-Hilal interest
United are believed to be keen on signing Ndiaye this summer, although an exit is dependent on whether or not Marcus Rashford leaves.
If Rashford departs, then he will need to be replaced and this could prompt United to make a strong push for Ndiaye. The key concern is that the player could be unavailable by the time United are in a position to move, given Al-Hilal’s interest.
It’s understood that Al-Hilal have opened talks to sign Ndiaye. The Saudi Pro League has already secured the services of Crysencio Summerville from West Ham. They want another marquee forward and Ndiaye is seen as someone who fits the bill.
Ndiaye contributed six goals and three assists in 32 Premier League appearances last season.
More recently, it was claimed that a personal agreement is already in place between the 26-year-old and Al-Hilal, suggesting that United’s hopes of landing him were hanging by a thread.
However, Romano has clarified that this is not the case and the race for Ndiaye remains open.
Romano issues Ndiaye update
The Italian journalist wrote on X, “Al Hilal are in talks to sign Iliman Ndiaye as exclusively revealed on Monday, but there’s nothing agreed or done on player side as of today.”
“Contract terms are yet to be agreed despite reports. More will follow in the next days.”
🚨🇸🇦 Al Hilal are in talks to sign Iliman Ndiaye as exclusively revealed on Monday, but there’s nothing agreed or done on player side as of today.
Contract terms are yet to be agreed despite reports. More will follow in the next days. pic.twitter.com/fkvATKhSzm
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 29, 2026
This development might have given United a brief reprieve, but the landscape is set to shift again sooner rather than later.
Resolution of Rashford’s future is paramount, as it may well prove to be the catalyst for progress in the Ndiaye pursuit.
United are next in action on Saturday when they face Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid.
The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment
Overall credibility: 9/10
Why?
✅Reported by tier 1 transfer specialist
✅The player fits United’s tactical and financial profile.
✅No contradictory reports elsewhere
TPP view
We believe that Al-Hilal have yet to agree terms with the player and Man United still have a chance if they want him.
Featured image by Carl Recine/Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
