Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr is dealing with the emotional fallout of a collapsed move to Liverpool while recovering from a groin injury that has kept him out of Premier League action. The 28-year-old Senegalese international was linked with a late transfer window switch to Anfield that ultimately failed to materialize, leaving him to continue with Palace.
Pierre Sage, the Crystal Palace head coach, confirmed Sarr needs time to process the situation. "He has to digest for sure because it's a dream for a lot of players to play with this kind of club (Liverpool)," Sage told reporters this week. The manager added that Sarr had a good opportunity that didn't work out and must now focus on having another strong season with Palace.
Sarr has not featured for Crystal Palace at all this campaign. He sat out their Premier League opener, a defeat at Everton, and missed their 4-1 home loss to Manchester City due to the groin problem. The forward will remain sidelined for Palace's trip to Fulham on Saturday at 15:00 BST as he continues his recovery.
His absence comes after intense speculation about his future during the final days of the transfer window. Liverpool explored moves for both Sarr and Brighton's Yankuba Minteh but were unable to agree fees for either player. The Reds also rejected an £80m bid from Manchester City for Cody Gakpo without lining up a replacement, indicating their broader transfer strategy faced complications.
With Sarr's future in doubt, Crystal Palace engaged in talks with Belgian forward Malick Fofana on deadline day. The 21-year-old was available from Lyon, but ultimately chose to join Sunderland in a deal worth £30m instead of moving to Selhurst Park.
Pierre Sage addressed the failed pursuit, saying, "We gave our best. The player chose his criteria and I wish him and them the best because he's a good guy and a good player." Palace appeared to have gazumped Sunderland for Fofana's signature at one stage, but the young attacker ultimately selected the Wearside club.
Liverpool's inability to secure Sarr or Minteh leaves them with their current attacking options as they prepare for their next Premier League fixture against Everton on November 28th.
Pierre Sage emphasized that Sarr must now concentrate on his performances for Crystal Palace. "If Sarr wants to continue, he must have a good season with Palace as he did last year," the manager stated. Sarr was Palace's top scorer last season, and the club will need his attacking contributions once he returns to fitness.
Meanwhile, Saturday's opponents Fulham are seeking their first Premier League point after losing their opening two matches against Chelsea and Sunderland. Sarr's continued absence means Palace will need other attackers to step up at Craven Cottage. The Senegalese forward's recovery timeline remains unclear, but Palace will hope their key man can return soon to bolster their attacking options. Liverpool's next match is against Everton at Goodison Park on November 28th.
