Crystal Palace Pursue ‘Game-Winning’ Forward Ismaila Sarr
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VILLARREAL, SPAIN - MARCH 14: Ismaila Sarr of Olympique Marseille looks on during the UEFA Europa League 2023/24 round of 16 second leg match between Villarreal CF and Olympique Marseille at Estadio de la Ceramica on March 14, 2024 in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo by Mateo Villalba/Getty Images)
Crystal Palace are targeting Marseille winger Ismaila Sarr as a potential replacement for Michael Olise. According to Sky Sports journalist Michael Bridge, Palace are long-time admirers of Sarr, with personal terms not expected to be an issue.
Palace’s sporting director Dougie Freedman has maintained interest in the Senegalese winger since his time at Watford. The club is currently in talks with Marseille to sign the 26-year-old, as manager Oliver Glasner seeks to strengthen his squad ahead of his first full season in charge.
Despite their interest, Palace are yet to meet Marseille’s valuation for Sarr, who joined the French club for around £15 million last summer. Following Olise’s move to Bayern Munich, the Eagles have been linked with several replacements, including Juventus’ Matias Soule and Leeds’ Crysencio Summerville.
Palace Keen on Sarr Deal
Marseille’s extensive summer spending may necessitate offloading players, providing Palace an opportunity to secure Sarr’s transfer. Bridge noted that Marseille’s financial situation could facilitate the deal:
“Sarr, they like him a lot. Personal terms aren’t expected to be a problem. Dougie Freeman has liked him for a long time, particularly at Watford. They are in the market for attacking players after Michael Olise’s departure, and Marseille can’t keep spending.”
Despite multiple hamstring injuries, Sarr made a promising return to Ligue 1 last season, scoring three goals and providing four assists in 23 appearances. Former Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster has described Sarr as a ‘game-winner,’ highlighting his potential impact for Palace.
Palace Consider Emile Smith Rowe
In addition to Sarr, Crystal Palace and Fulham are reportedly considering improved bids for Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe. Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth mentioned that both clubs are internally discussing whether to present new proposals for the 23-year-old, who is seeking more playing time.
Smith Rowe’s game time has been limited at Arsenal, with the midfielder playing just 346 minutes in the Premier League last season.
