Liverpool Submit £50 Million Offer for Ismaila Sarr After Yankuba Minteh Deal Falls Through

Liverpool have shifted their attention in the transfer market, putting forward a £50 million bid for Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr. This comes after the club abandoned negotiations for Brighton's forward Yankuba Minteh, whose price tag of £70 million was deemed too high following two rejected offers.

With just five days left before the transfer window closes on Monday, Liverpool acted quickly to pursue an alternative option. Sarr, who joined Crystal Palace two years ago, is reportedly eager to move to Merseyside. The club’s attacking line has been severely affected by the tragic loss of Diogo Jota and the departures of Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah, making the recruitment of wide forwards a priority.

Competition for Sarr Intensifies

Securing the 28-year-old winger won't be simple. Reports from Foot Mercato reveal that Saudi Arabian team Al-Hilal and Turkish giants Galatasaray are also in pursuit. Galatasaray are said to be in advanced discussions, while Al-Hilal are monitoring developments closely.

Sarr’s recent performances back his value; last season, he made 45 appearances across all competitions, scoring 21 goals and providing two assists, helping Crystal Palace lift the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy. Additionally, at the World Cup this summer, he scored four goals before Senegal exited in the round of 32 against Belgium.

Manager Iraola Pushes for Swift Reinforcements

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has expressed urgency in strengthening the squad. He admitted the team feels stretched, especially with interest from clubs like Tottenham and Manchester City in winger Cody Gakpo.

"Some deals you have to wait until the end. But the end is the important picture, the one we will have on September 1, because it is true that we are still quite thin," Iraola told Sky Sports. "I wanted all positions doubled with top-level players before the campaign began, but now we must adapt."

Next Steps for Liverpool

Liverpool await Crystal Palace's response to their £50 million offer for Sarr. If accepted, the winger could complete a medical before the Monday deadline. Meanwhile, the club is continuing talks with Paris Saint-Germain over the possibility of signing Bradley Barcola to strengthen their attacking options further.