The Senegal star joined Marseille on the eve of the season in a deal that shocked many supporters and left a gaping hole in Paul Heckingbottom’s squad. Sander Berge, who moved to Burnley a week later, has since been replaced by Coventry’s Gus Hamer and the manager has been promised the funds from Ndiaye’s deal to strengthen his squad.
United’s recruitment stuff are working tirelessly to secure reinforcements before September 1’s transfer deadline but, in the meantime, we asked Blades supporters who they would realistically like to see targeted as Ndiaye’s replacement - here are the results, with some less serious or achievable than others...
5. Tommy Doyle
Suggested by a few supporters, Doyle was a fans’ favourite during his loan spell at United last season but his wages at City would appear to rule out a permanent move for now, even before considering City’s valuation of their young star. Another loan move remains a distinct possibility though, with Doyle seemingly not in Pep Guardiola’s plans for the new season | Getty Images
6. Armando Broja
Armando Broja Fan @Tsparkes4 on Twitter admitted this one was “probably too unrealistic” and Chelsea are indeed not letting Broja out on loan amid interest from AC Milan and West Ham. A player with real promise, Broja is working his way back from a bad injury but could be available later in the window
| AFP via Getty Images
7. Florinel Coman
A suggestion from @mironescu1980, who describes the FCSB Romania man as “a very good and skilled player”. Boss Marius Șumudică is perplexed as to why no-one has met the player’s buy-out clause, thought to be just five million euros, after scoring five goals in FCSB’s first six matches of the season | AFP via Getty Images
8. Ilias Chair
A player suggested more than once by United players, owing to his reputation as one of the most talented players in the Championship. He scored five goals and added nine assists in a poor QPR season last time out and has been linked with Leicester as they search for a James Maddison replacement | Getty Images