Details of Sheffield United star Iliman Ndiaye’s miraculous U-turn have emerged ahead of his move to Marseille.
Ndiaye is set to sign for his boyhood club, despite previously agreeing to stay put at Bramall Lane.
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The 23-year-old will head to the Ligue 1 side, which will see the Blades pocket £20million for their prized-asset.
Ndiaye was due to pen a new long-term deal with Sheffield United, with the club even filming an announcement video.
According to The Star, the club were so certain he would sign a new contract, the clip had already been prepared.
The report adds the Senegal international had undergone media duties, including wearing the famous number 10 shirt previously owned by Billy Sharp, who was the narrator in the video.
Sheffield United even drafted a press release which included quotes from boss Paul Heckingbottom and Chief Executive Stephen Bettis.
Ndiaye, who has 12-months remaining on his contract, was spoken to by owner Prince Abdullah over his future most recently.
The player was set to be offered an improved contract, including improved salary, which had been discussed during the Blades’ Portugal pre-season training camp.
Ndiaye’s quick u-turn has certainly sent shock ways around the club, who will now need to plan for life without him.
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Sheffield United will explore the market for potential replacements, with several names on their shortlist.
Manchester City youngster James McAtee, who had a successful spell at the club last season, is under consideration.
Manchester United star Amad Diallo is another name touted, with Metz midfielder Georges Mikautadze also linked.
