Ismaila Sarr was the subject of a £50million offer from Liverpool late in the summer transfer window, but Crystal Palace rejected the bid.
Liverpool had identified the Senegal international as a leading target to strengthen their right wing, although Palace chairman Steve Parish later revealed the offer fell well short of their valuation and no second bid was made.
“It’s unfortunate with Ismaila, but that wasn’t really a situation that was of our doing,” Parish told the Atheltic. “A club (Liverpool) came in and, with the amount of money they bid, they couldn’t seriously think in that market it was going to get done at that level, and then they didn’t come back in for him.”
Sarr has featured just twice for Palace since then, amid reports of tension between the player and the club. The winger enjoyed an impressive campaign last season, scoring 21 goals and providing two assists in 45 appearances across all competitions.
Liverpool remain keen to strengthen their wide options ahead of January, but their interest could depend on Sarr’s contract situation.
According to Sky Sports, Palace are in talks with Sarr’s representatives over a new deal. The discussions have been described as positive and good-natured, although an agreement is not close. Sarr’s current contract runs until 2029.
Galatasaray also made a bid for Sarr during the summer, with reports suggesting the Senegal international was keen on a move to Turkey and even missed training in an attempt to force a transfer. Andoni Iraola’s side will have to consider alternative targets if Sarr signs a new contract at Selhurst Park.
Liverpool signed Victor Munoz and Bradley Barcola during the summer window. However, all three of Munoz, Barcola and Cody Gakpo prefer operating from the left, meaning Mohamed Salah’s position on the right remains an area of concern.
Sarr has established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout attackers since joining Crystal Palace from Marseille in August 2024.
The 28-year-old has enjoyed an impressive second spell in England after a mixed period with Watford and has become an important figure in Palace’s recent success.
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