Liverpool have entered race to sign Crystal Palace forward Ismaïla Sarr after submitting an initial proposal worth £50 million for the Senegal international.
The Reds are understood to have turned their attention to Sarr after ending their pursuit of Newcastle United winger Yankuba Minteh, with the player’s asking price considered too high. Liverpool have now opened discussions with Palace, although the London club face a major decision over whether to accept the latest offer.
Crystal Palace have already rejected approaches from Turkish giants Galatasaray for Sarr, underlining the club’s determination to protect the value of one of their most important attacking players. Liverpool’s proposal is therefore expected to test Palace’s resolve as the transfer window approaches its closing stages.
Sarr is reportedly open to the possibility of moving to Anfield and is keen on the opportunity to join Liverpool. His willingness to consider the transfer could become an important factor if negotiations between the two clubs continue.
The 28 year old forward has developed into one of the most experienced Senegalese attackers in European football. Born in Saint-Louis, Senegal, Sarr began his professional career at Génération Foot, the renowned Senegalese academy that has produced several prominent footballers, including Sadio Mané.
His journey from Senegal to the European elite began in 2016 when he moved to France to join Metz. Sarr quickly caught the attention of scouts with his explosive pace, direct running and ability to operate across the frontline.
After an impressive season in Ligue 1, he moved to Rennes in 2017. His performances in France continued to improve, and he played an important role as Rennes won the Coupe de France in 2019.
That success earned him a move to England, with Watford signing him in 2019 for a club record fee. Sarr quickly became one of the Hornets’ most dangerous attacking players, combining his speed with improved finishing and creativity.
During his time at Watford, Sarr produced several memorable performances in the Premier League and the Championship. His form eventually attracted Aston Villa, but the proposed transfer did not materialise before he later moved to Marseille in 2023.
His time in France was relatively short, with Crystal Palace completing his signing in 2024. The move gave Sarr another opportunity to establish himself in the Premier League and compete regularly at the highest level of English football.
At Palace, Sarr has demonstrated his versatility. He can play as a winger, attacking midfielder or central forward, giving managers additional tactical options. His pace remains one of his biggest weapons, particularly when attacking space behind defensive lines.
His experience with Senegal is another major part of his profile. Sarr made his senior international debut in 2016 and has since become an established member of the Teranga Lions.
He was part of Senegal’s squad that reached the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations final before helping the country achieve its biggest footballing success in 2022. Senegal defeated Egypt on penalties in the final to win the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in their history.
Sarr has also represented Senegal at multiple major international tournaments, giving him considerable experience of high pressure matches. His international career has further enhanced his reputation as one of the country’s leading attacking players.
For Liverpool, the proposed move would add another experienced and versatile option to their forward line. The club have been active in the transfer market as they look to maintain their competitiveness domestically and in Europe.
Liverpool’s decision to pursue Sarr after stepping away from Minteh indicates a change in recruitment strategy. Rather than continuing to negotiate over a younger and more expensive target, the club appear to have identified Sarr as an alternative capable of making an immediate contribution.
However, Palace are under no obligation to sell. Sarr remains an important member of their squad, and the club’s previous rejection of Galatasaray’s proposals suggests that Liverpool may have to improve their offer if they want to secure an agreement.
The reported £50 million bid could nevertheless provide the starting point for further negotiations. With Sarr interested in joining Liverpool, the next stage will depend largely on Palace’s valuation and whether the Reds are prepared to increase their proposal.
A move to Anfield would represent another significant chapter in Sarr’s career. From developing at Génération Foot in Senegal to playing in France, England and for his country at the highest level, the forward has built an impressive football journey.
For Liverpool supporters, the possibility of seeing Sarr in the famous red shirt adds another layer of excitement to an already busy transfer window. The Senegalese forward’s pace, versatility and Premier League experience could make him an intriguing addition to the squad.
With an official proposal reportedly on the table, attention will now turn to Crystal Palace’s response. Liverpool have made their interest clear, Sarr is reportedly open to the move, and the coming days could determine whether the £50 million proposal develops into a full agreement.
