Liverpool consider Ismaila Sarr as Saudi clubs join Crystal Palace transfer race

Liverpool have made contact with Crystal Palace over a possible deal for Ismaila Sarr, with the Senegal international emerging as a priority target after the collapse of the club’s move for Yankuba Minteh.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool have opened discussions regarding the 27-year-old winger. The proposed move for Minteh ultimately fell through because of Brighton’s demands, prompting the Reds to identify Sarr as an alternative attacking option.

Liverpool are understood to have offered about £50m for Sarr, a figure worth approximately €58m. The player is reportedly open to the transfer and would be willing to take on a new challenge with Liverpool.

However, Crystal Palace are not short of interest in the former Watford forward. Galatasaray have already had two bids rejected by the London club, who are believed to be seeking a substantial fee before considering Sarr’s departure.

Liverpool’s offer could therefore give them an advantage in the negotiations, although an agreement with Palace has yet to be reached. The size of the proposed bid suggests the Reds are prepared to make a significant commitment to secure the player.

Saudi interest adds competition

Sarr has also been offered to several Saudi Arabian clubs in recent days, according to Sacha Tavolieri. A Saudi agency is reported to have begun talks with Crystal Palace to explore the possibility of a transfer.

Several teams in the Saudi Pro League are said to be interested in the Senegal winger, meaning Liverpool may face increasing competition as the transfer window approaches its final days.

Sarr joined Crystal Palace from Marseille in 2023 and remains under contract with the Eagles until 30 June 2029. He is valued at €45m by Transfermarkt and is reported to earn €4,348,684 per year, equivalent to 2,826,644,600 FCFA.

The potential move comes after Liverpool quickly turned their attention to Sarr following the failure to complete the Minteh deal. The Senegal forward could now become the club’s main attacking target, although the outcome is likely to depend on whether Liverpool can satisfy Palace’s financial demands and fend off interest from the Saudi Pro League.

Crystal Palace are due to play Manchester City in the second round of the English league season. For that fixture, betting company 1xbet lists odds of 4.90 for a Palace victory, 4.00 for a draw and 1.56 for a Manchester City win.