Crystal Palace Close to Signing Ismaila Sarr from Marseille for £12.5m

Crystal Palace are on the verge of securing the transfer of winger Ismaila Sarr from Marseille in a deal worth approximately £12.5 million. The 26-year-old Senegalese international is expected to sign a five-year contract with the Premier League club.

Sarr joined Marseille from Watford in July 2023 and has since made a notable impact, scoring five goals and providing six assists in all competitions last season. His tenure at Watford saw him net 34 goals in 131 appearances. On the international stage, Sarr has earned 64 caps for Senegal, scoring 13 goals, and was part of the squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2021. He has also participated in two World Cups.

Marseille's need to balance their books has led to Sarr's availability, especially after their recent acquisition of Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood. Under the new management of Roberto de Zerbi, Marseille is looking to recoup funds through player sales.

Crystal Palace has been actively seeking a replacement for Michael Olise, who recently transferred to Bayern Munich for £50 million. The club’s summer activities have also seen the arrival of Japanese midfielder Daichi Kamada on a free transfer from Lazio and Moroccan international Chadi Riad for £14 million from Real Betis.

With Sarr's addition, Palace aims to bolster their attacking options as they prepare for the upcoming season.