Liverpool are unlikely to resurrect their pursuit of Crystal Palace forward Ismaïla Sarr in the January transfer window, according to Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage, following a failed late summer move for the Senegal international. The Anfield club made a late attempt to sign the 28-year-old winger, with reports on the financial package differing; TEAMtalk reported a verbal offer of less than £40 million was rejected, while other reports, referencing transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, claimed Palace turned down a £50 million bid.
Sage rules out January exit for recovering Sarr
Speaking to the media, Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage confirmed that the player is processing the disappointment of the collapsed move to Anfield. Sarr, who has yet to feature for Palace this season due to a groin injury, remains under contract with the London club until 2029. Sage emphasized that Sarr will not be departing mid-season, pointing to European squad registration and Palace's overall campaign goals. "He has to digest for sure because it's a dream for a lot of players to play with this kind of club," Sage said. "I don’t think he will leave, because now all the clubs are in the season. He’s still our player, and we are happy with that."
Liverpool squad planning and alternative targets
Liverpool's interest in the winger came during a period of squad rebuilding, following the departure of Mohamed Salah. The Reds eventually completed the signing of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth £123 million. Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola also retained Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo, with the club reportedly rejecting an £80 million bid from Manchester City late in the window. With Barcola secured and Gakpo remaining at Anfield, alongside previous interest in Brighton & Hove Albion's Yankuba Minteh, Liverpool's need for right-wing depth has evolved. Sarr, who was named Player of the Tournament in Palace's successful UEFA Conference League campaign, must now focus on returning to fitness to build on his valuation ahead of future windows.
