Sheffield United are now more optimistic about keeping Iliman Ndiaye until the end of the season, according to reports in the local media.

Everton are believed to be interested in recruiting the Senegalese international, with it being claimed that they may table a £15m bid before the transfer window shuts on Tuesday.

Ndiaye has less than eighteen months left on his contract at Bramall Lane and the Yorkshire side’s transfer embargo has meant that they have been unable to offer the player an extension.

It led to concerns that the attacking midfielder’s agent may look to engineer a move away from the club in January, especially with the interest being shown from Everton.

However, Ndiaye’s representative is not believed to be pressing for a transfer at this stage, which may give United the stay of execution they need.

Manager Paul Heckingbottom will be delighted to keep hold of Ndiaye, who has scored 10 goals in 28 league appearances so far this campaign.