Liverpool are making headlines once again as the summer transfer window enters its final stages. The Reds have reportedly switched their attention to Crystal Palace winger Ismaïla Sarr after their pursuit of Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh broke down.
The move comes at a crucial time for new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola, who has made strengthening the wide areas one of his priorities.
Liverpool Turn to Ismaïla Sarr
According to reports on Wednesday, Liverpool have opened discussions with Crystal Palace regarding a possible transfer for Sarr. Several reports indicate that Liverpool have made an offer of around £50 million for the Senegal international.
However, Palace are understood to be reluctant to sell the 28-year-old winger. Reports later on Wednesday suggested that the initial proposal had been rejected, meaning Liverpool could face another difficult negotiation before the transfer window closes.
Sarr enjoyed an impressive campaign last season, helping Palace achieve success in Europe while establishing himself as one of their most important attacking players. His pace, versatility and experience in the Premier League make him an attractive option for Liverpool as they look to add more firepower to their attack.
Minteh Pursuit Comes to an End
Liverpool’s move for Sarr follows the collapse of their negotiations for Yankuba Minteh.
The Reds had reportedly made two bids for the Brighton winger, with the latest believed to be worth around £60 million. Brighton, however, were demanding approximately £80 million, and Liverpool ultimately decided against increasing their offer.
The breakdown leaves Liverpool needing to reassess their options with the transfer deadline approaching.
Minteh had been identified as one of the players capable of providing greater pace and directness on the wing. His departure from Liverpool’s list of immediate targets means the club must now decide whether Sarr is the right alternative or whether to pursue another option.
Bradley Barcola Still on Liverpool’s Radar
Another name linked with Liverpool throughout the summer has been Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain.
The French winger is reportedly a major target, but PSG’s valuation has made negotiations extremely complicated. With Liverpool already investing heavily in their squad, a move for Barcola would represent a substantial financial commitment.
The club therefore appears to be weighing several options as Iraola looks to build a squad capable of competing domestically and in Europe.
A New Era at Anfield
Liverpool are undergoing significant changes following a disappointing 2025/26 campaign. The Reds finished fifth in the Premier League and are now attempting to rebuild under Iraola.
Several important players have departed, including Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, Ibrahima Konaté and Curtis Jones, who completed his permanent transfer to Inter Milan earlier this month.
Liverpool have also added new players, including Jérémy Jacquet, Víctor Muñoz and Ronald Araújo on loan, while Alexander Isak remains an important part of the club’s attacking plans.
The new campaign has already begun, with Liverpool drawing 2-2 away to Newcastle United in their opening Premier League fixture. Dominik Szoboszlai’s stoppage-time penalty rescued a point for Iraola’s side.
What Happens Next?
With the transfer deadline approaching, Liverpool’s next move will be closely watched.
The immediate focus appears to be on strengthening the wings, with Sarr now emerging as the latest target after the Minteh negotiations collapsed. Whether Palace can be persuaded to sell remains uncertain.
Liverpool will also discover their 2026/27 Champions League league-phase opponents on August 27, adding another major event to an already busy week at Anfield.
For Liverpool supporters, the message is clear: the summer rebuild is not finished yet, and the final days of the transfer window could still bring another major addition to Iraola’s squad.