Marseille stunned by Sheffield United’s sky-high Iliman Ndiaye transfer demand with Blades out to keep striker in Prem
SHEFFIELD UNITED want a stunning £30million for star forward Iliman Ndiaye — to the surprise of French giants Marseille.
The Blades are holding out for the massive fee for the Senegalese speedster, who is entering the last year of his contract.
Marseille were advised by middle-men that it would only take £11m to get Ndiaye, 23.
They are also prepared to include a sell-on percentage.
For all Marseille’s interest, they have made no direct official contact with United — but now know their huge valuation.
Ndiaye’s boyhood club are also prepared to wait until the end of next season when he will become a free agent.
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Ndiaye enjoyed a stellar 2022-23 campaign, scoring 14 goals and assisting 11 times as the Blades achieved automatic promotion to the Premier League.
His form saw him earn a call-up to the Senegalese national team for the Qatar 2022 World Cup.
He made three appearances from the bench at the tournament, registering one assist.
But Marseille could switch to Strasbourg striker Habib Diallo, who is available for £14m.
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Ironically, he is on Blades’ wish list if Ndiaye goes.
Meanwhile, United face an anxious wait for new signing Benie Traore to get a visa.
The Ivorian forward flew from Sweden to Portugal to sign forms during the club’s tour but is still waiting for his UK papers.