Crystal Palace are in talks with Ismaila Sarr over a new contract as they seek to keep the Senegal international at the club beyond the January transfer window.
The London club do not want to sell the 28-year-old during the winter market and have opened negotiations with the winger, according to Football Insider. Discussions are understood to be progressing positively, with both Palace and Sarr hoping to reach an agreement that would extend their relationship over the long term.
Palace’s stance follows a summer in which a number of clubs showed interest in the former Watford and Olympique de Marseille player. Liverpool were reported to have made an offer worth £50m, approximately €60m, but that proposal was rejected by the Eagles.
Galatasaray were also interested in signing Sarr, while the player was understood to have options in Saudi Arabia.
Despite a difficult start to the season and limited playing time under Pierre Sage, Sarr remains an important part of Crystal Palace’s plans. The club therefore intends to retain him and is not expected to consider any bids that may arrive in January.
Journalist Pete O’Rourke reports that Palace hope a contract extension will protect the Senegalese player’s future and deter clubs monitoring his situation. However, no final agreement has been announced, meaning uncertainty remains over Sarr’s position as several potential suitors continue to follow developments.
Sarr is currently contracted to Crystal Palace until 30 June 2029. His market value is estimated at €45m, while his annual salary is reported to be €4,348,684, equivalent to 2,826,644,600 FCFA.
Crystal Palace’s next fixture is their EFL Cup fourth-round match against Fulham.