Marseille in talks to sign Sheffield United forward Iliman Ndiaye

Olympique Marseille have been told to stump up at least €20 million for Sheffield United forward Iliman Ndiaye as transfer talks near a conclusion, claims RMC Sport.

The French giants are hot on the heels of the Senegalese striker who spurred Paul Heckingbottom’s side to Premier League promotion last season.

Ndiaye lit up the Championship registering 14 goals and 12 assists to go along with his dazzling on-the-ball ability, which has unsurprisingly caught the eye this summer.

Despite helping the Blades reach the English top flight, the striker’s head has been turned by interest from the French club and he is eager to jump ship this summer.

United offered Ndiaye a new contract on improved terms, with his current deal expiring in 12 months, but the versatile forward is reluctant to pledge his allegiance to the club.

A move to Marseille will offer the 23-year-old a chance to play in the Champions League next season, which is understood to be a major factor in his decision to leave Bramall Lane.

Ndiaye has already given the green light to Marseille after agreeing a five-year contract, and the French club will proceed with talks with the Blades over the transfer fee.

United are open to cashing in on their star man this summer to avoid losing him for free next year but have refused to lower their demands. 

They want no less than €20m for a player who was instrumental to their Premier League berth, and it remains to be seen if Marseille are willing to match their demands.

Marseille are in the market for a new striker amid uncertainty surrounding Alexis Sanchez’s future at Orange Velodrome.

The former Barcelona and Arsenal forward is a free agent after his contract with Marseille expired on June 30.

Les Minot have tabled a renewal offer, but the striker is yet to respond to their terms.