Liverpool have reportedly shifted their attention to Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr as they look to strengthen their attacking options before the transfer window closes.

The Reds are believed to have opened negotiations with Crystal Palace over a potential deal for the Senegal international after ending their pursuit of Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh. Liverpool had been interested in Minteh as a possible addition to their forward line, but the move reportedly broke down after Brighton placed a higher valuation on the player than Liverpool were prepared to meet.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool have now identified Sarr as an alternative target and have already made an approach for the 28-year-old winger. The Merseyside club are understood to have submitted an initial offer worth around £50 million as they attempt to open discussions with Palace.

However, that figure may not be enough to convince Crystal Palace to part company with one of their most important attacking players. Reports indicate that Palace are looking for a higher fee, meaning Liverpool could have to improve their proposal if they want to complete the transfer.

Sarr’s future at Selhurst Park has already been the subject of considerable speculation this summer. The Senegalese forward was left out of Crystal Palace’s squad for their opening-day Premier League fixture against Everton, prompting further questions about his situation at the club.

Galatasaray had previously been regarded as one of the leading contenders for Sarr’s signature. The Turkish club were reportedly keen to take advantage of the uncertainty surrounding the player’s future and had been exploring the possibility of bringing him to Istanbul.

Nevertheless, Liverpool’s emergence could dramatically change the situation. The Premier League giants have the financial resources and sporting appeal to present Palace with a major challenge if they decide to push ahead with a formal bid.

Palace’s opening match of the season ended in disappointment as they suffered a 2-0 defeat against Everton. Sarr was unavailable for the fixture, although new manager Pierre Sage played down suggestions that his absence was directly connected to the transfer speculation. The manager indicated that the winger had been dealing with a groin problem, which had contributed to his omission from the matchday squad.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Sarr enjoyed an impressive campaign last season. He scored 21 goals across all competitions and played a major role in Crystal Palace’s successful European campaign. His performances helped the club secure the Europa Conference League title, further increasing his importance and market value.

Palace are therefore understandably reluctant to sell him unless their financial demands are met. The club signed Sarr from Marseille in 2024, and they could now make a significant profit if Liverpool eventually agree to pay the fee required to secure his services.

Sarr is also no stranger to English football. Before moving to Crystal Palace, he spent four seasons with Watford between 2019 and 2023. During his time at Vicarage Road, he established himself as one of the Premier League’s most dangerous attacking players, combining pace, direct running and an ability to score important goals.

His experience in English football could make him an attractive option for Liverpool. Rather than requiring an extended period of adaptation to the Premier League, Sarr already understands the intensity, physical demands and tactical nature of the competition.

Liverpool have been actively searching for additional attacking quality throughout the summer. The club appear determined to increase their options in the final third, particularly as they look to compete on several fronts during the new season.

One of the players previously linked with Liverpool was Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola. However, Liverpool reportedly remain unwilling to match PSG’s valuation of the France international, with the Ligue 1 champions believed to value the player at approximately £145 million.

That enormous asking price has encouraged Liverpool to explore alternative targets. Sarr could represent a considerably more affordable option while still offering Premier League experience and proven attacking production.

The move would also provide Liverpool with another versatile forward capable of operating in different attacking positions. His speed and ability to attack space could add another dimension to Liverpool’s offensive play, particularly against teams that defend with a high line.

For Crystal Palace, however, the situation remains complicated. The club have little reason to sell Sarr cheaply after his outstanding performances last season, and his departure would leave a significant gap in their attack.

The reported £50 million opening bid may therefore be viewed as the beginning of negotiations rather than Liverpool’s final offer. If Palace maintain their stance that they want more money, Liverpool will have to decide whether Sarr is worth increasing their financial commitment.

Liverpool’s decision to abandon their pursuit of Yankuba Minteh and turn towards Sarr suggests that the club are determined to find an attacking reinforcement before the transfer window shuts. Whether they can reach an agreement with Crystal Palace will depend largely on the two clubs’ respective valuations.

For now, Sarr’s future remains uncertain. Galatasaray have previously shown interest, while Liverpool have now entered the race with a substantial opening proposal. With Palace reluctant to sell and Liverpool searching for more firepower, negotiations could develop quickly in the coming days.

If Liverpool eventually succeed in signing Sarr, the transfer would represent another major addition to their attacking department and could give the club an experienced Premier League forward with the ability to make an immediate impact.

For Sarr, meanwhile, a move to Anfield would offer the opportunity to join one of England’s biggest clubs and compete for major domestic and European honours. His next destination could therefore become one of the most closely watched transfer stories as the window approaches its conclusion.