Ismaila Sarr has informed Crystal Palace of his desire to join Liverpool. The 28-year-old has emerged as the Reds' top target for the right wing position before the end of the transfer window.
Andoni Iraola's side had earmarked a deal for Yankuba Minteh but were put off by Brighton's £80million valuation, and have instead moved to Sarr, who is keen to quit Palace in the next 48 hours.
Bid rejected and player stance
Last Wednesday, it was reported that Palace had rejected an initial £50m bid from Liverpool for Sarr, who scored 21 goals in 45 appearances across all competitions for the Eagles last season.
While Palace do NOT want to sell before the September 1 deadline, Sarr has made it clear to chairman Steve Parish that he wants to leave and sign for Liverpool, according to Foot Mercato. It's added that the Senegal international is 'waiting' for an agreement to be reached with the Reds for a transfer.
Senegal connection and current absence
He has even admitted to people close to him that the 'beautiful history' between Senegal and Liverpool must continue, referring to the time spent by El Hadji Diouf and Sadio Mane at Anfield.
Sarr hasn't featured in each of Palace's first two Premier League matches against Everton and Manchester City, and is now waiting to see if he can make this 'major' step in his career by joining Liverpool.
Manager's comments and other targets
Despite Sarr's desire to move to the Reds, Palace boss Pierre Sage appeared to shut down rumours about the winger's future in a press conference on Thursday, claiming his absence is down to injury.
Sage said: "I understand for everybody that you have this kind of contact, it's difficult because you hesitate a lot, but, for the moment, he's with us. He is under contract [until 2029], as I told you."He's injured and, maybe you can make a link between his injury and the situation, but for me, he’s honest, and I have no problem with that. I spoke with him [Thursday] morning about that, [Wednesday] about that too, and we just want him on the pitch."
Liverpool, meanwhile, are desperate to strengthen their front line before the window closes with Bradley Barcola another name linked with a move to Anfield. It appears the Reds want two attacking reinforcements with Barcola eyed to bolster the left side with Sarr for the right.
