Liverpool have seen an initial bid for Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr rejected but are continuing their pursuit of the Senegal international. The club's manager, Andoni Iraola, has stated his aim to bring in three new players before the transfer window closes on Tuesday.
An offer worth around £50 million for the 28-year-old Sarr was turned down by Palace. Liverpool are not discouraged and discussions are ongoing for a player viewed as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, who left the club in the summer. Sarr is comfortable operating on the right wing, a position Iraola is determined to strengthen.
Iraola's wider recruitment plans include securing two players who can operate in wide areas. One of those targets, France winger Bradley Barcola, is set to join from Paris Saint-Germain after a deal worth £100 million plus £20 million in potential add-ons was agreed. The 23-year-old's arrival is expected imminently.
The manager was asked directly about the future of current forward Cody Gakpo amid this incoming activity. "When the market is open, you cannot guarantee anything with anyone," Iraola told reporters on Thursday. Gakpo has attracted interest from Tottenham Hotspur this summer, with their manager Roberto De Zerbi reportedly keen on the Dutchman.
If Liverpool are successful in landing their primary targets, a departure for Gakpo before the deadline remains a possibility. The club's transfer business is now entering its final, decisive phase.
With the new signings intended to bolster the attacking options, attention will quickly turn to integrating them into the team.
