Tottenham Hotspur head coach Roberto De Zerbi has landed a massive boost in the final hours of the summer transfer window after Spurs reached an agreement in principle with Everton to sign Senegal forward Iliman Ndiaye.
The late-window drama comes as part of a whirlwind series of interconnected transfer sagas. While Tottenham pivoted to Ndiaye after Cody Gakpo opted for Manchester City, Everton are finalizing a landmark double acquisition—securing the return of fan-favorite Richarlison from Spurs alongside continued talks for Jack Grealish.
The Cascade: How Gakpo's City Move Opened the Door for Spurs
Tottenham's late swoop for Ndiaye was triggered by a sudden chain of events involving Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo.
The Gakpo Pivot: Spurs had initially positioned themselves to sign Gakpo, but Manchester City hijacked the pursuit late in the window.
Domino Effect on Ndiaye: Manchester City had spent weeks considering an £80 million package for Everton's Ndiaye that would have included Jack Grealish heading to Goodison Park.
Spurs Act Fast: Sensing an immediate opening, Roberto De Zerbi and the Tottenham hierarchy moved rapidly to strike an agreement with Everton for Ndiaye, meeting the Toffees' valuation before the September 1 deadline.
Richarlison & Grealish: Everton Closing in on Explosive Double Deal
While losing Ndiaye represents a major tactical shift for David Moyes, Everton have responded by setting up a dramatic double deal to bolster their attacking unit.
Richarlison's Goodison Return: Richarlison, who joined Tottenham from Everton for £60 million in 2022, is on the brink of returning to Merseyside.
The Jack Grealish Priority: Despite the original City-Ndiaye trade collapsing, Everton remain in active discussions to secure Jack Grealish.
