Crystal Palace begin a new era under Pierre Sage with Ismaila Sarr looking more important than ever.
Oliver Glasner has gone after delivering three trophies, but the standards set during that spell remain. Palace will compete in the Europa League this season and need proven match winners if they are to balance another European adventure with the demands of the Premier League.
Sarr certainly fits that description.
The Senegal star enjoyed the most productive club campaign of his career last season, scoring 21 goals in 45 appearances across all competitions.
Nine came in the Premier League and another nine arrived during Palace’s successful Conference League run, making him one of the main attacking forces behind their latest trophy.
Those numbers only tell part of the story.
Sarr’s speed gives Palace an immediate route up the pitch, while his movement can stretch a defence and create room for his attacking teammates. He is also comfortable moving inside from the right, which makes him more than a traditional touchline winger.
That versatility could be especially useful for Sage.
Sarr carried his form onto the biggest stage with Senegal this summer.
He scored twice against Norway at the World Cup, struck again in the win over Iraq and found the net against Belgium in the round of 32. Senegal eventually went out after extra time, but Sarr finished the tournament with four goals and further strengthened his reputation.
It is easy to see why Palace regard him as central to their plans. At 28, he is in his prime, has experience at the highest level and remains under contract for another three years.
However, that position is now being tested by a serious approach from abroad.
Crystal Palace get Ismaïla Sarr bid from Galatasaray
Fabrizio Romano reports that Turkish Süper Lig champions Galatasaray have submitted an official offer to Palace for Sarr as they try to strengthen on the wing.
The Turkish club have also received encouragement from the player’s side, with Sarr understood to be willing to discuss the possibility of a move.
That does not mean a transfer is close.
No fee has been disclosed and Palace are yet to show that they are prepared to sell. Romano adds that the Eagles see Sarr as a key figure, leaving the final decision firmly in their hands.
The length of his contract gives Palace plenty of protection.
There is no need to accept a cut-price proposal, particularly when finding a replacement of similar quality this late in the window could prove difficult.
Sarr may be ready to listen, but his club have powerful sporting reasons to keep him.
After 21 goals and a standout World Cup, losing him would leave Sage with a sizeable hole to fill just as Palace prepare for another demanding campaign.
