Everton to consider 'huge' Iliman Ndiaye offer as Arsenal construct new transfer plan
Arsenal are currently unlikely to pursue a big-money move for Everton star Iliman Ndiaye after concerns emerged about his inconsistency.
Mikel Arteta's side are on course to win the Premier League title, but believe they can improve in attacking areas and add more creativity to their side.
However, the Gunners had similar concerns about Eberechi Eze before signing him from Crystal Palace, and have been frustrated by his displays at times this season.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that while Ndiaye remains a target for Arsenal, they are likely to assess other options.
Arsenal could enjoy another busy transfer window this summer and have multiple positions which they are willing to bolster if the right deal emerges.
Arsenal make new Iliman Ndiaye transfer plan
Brown previously told Football Insider that Arsenal are keeping tabs on Ndiaye but are uncertain about whether they will pursue a deal in the summer.
Given the lofty price tag Everton are likely to demand, and concerns about where he would fit in their side and his inconsistency, a move is now considered unlikely.
"I think it would take a huge offer for Everton to even consider it," Brown told Football Insider.
"That is whether it’s from Arsenal or whoever, and even then I think they’d be reluctant to let him go, he’s that important.
"The thing is when we speak about Arsenal, they have to work out whether Ndiaye is the type of player they need at the moment.
"I had a few concerns about him when he was at Sheffield United, and he's stepped up his performances since then and become very important for Everton.
"But I'm told Arsenal share those concerns. He's the type of player who can be magic for 20 minutes but then he'll go missing for 70.
"It's a similar concern to the one they had about Eze, and he's struggled with that this season and been criticised for it, they've not always been the happiest with him.
"So will they want to take a gamble on a similar player? I think it's unlikely. They like his qualities, but those concerns are there."
Everton's stance on selling Ndiaye revealed
Arsenal are not the only side to have shown an interest in Ndiaye this season, with Tottenham also keen, although Everton are reluctant to see him leave.
The 26-year-old has become a key part of David Moyes’ plans and has scored five goals and provided three assists in 23 Premier League games this season.
As a result, Brown told Football Insider that Everton hope to keep Ndiaye and would only be tempted by a "huge" offer should anybody act on their interest.
His performances have played a crucial role in the Toffees rising to eighth in the table, with European football becoming a serious possibility on Merseyside.
Moyes hopes to be ambitious at the Hill Dickinson Stadium with intent to strengthen his side rather than weaken it as Everton step up their transfer plans.