Crystal Palace boss rules out January Sarr sale after Liverpool transfer collapse left him needing time to recover

Crystal Palace manager Pierre Sage has revealed that Ismaila Sarr needs time to recover emotionally after a move to Liverpool collapsed in the summer window, and has firmly ruled out the winger departing in January.

Liverpool had approached Sarr as they searched for cover on the right flank following Mohamed Salah’s uncertain future at the club. Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh was also considered, but neither deal was completed. Ultimately, Cody Gakpo — who had been close to joining Manchester City — remained at Anfield to provide additional options wide on the right.

Sage was candid about the toll the failed transfer has taken on his player. “He has to digest for sure because it’s a dream for a lot of players to play with this kind of club,” the Palace boss said. “He had a good opportunity but in the end it didn’t work. If he wants to continue, you have to have a good season with us as he did last year.”

The Frenchman acknowledged that recovery takes time. “We know he needs time. Like every bad situation, time does the job and we need time for that.”

On the prospect of Sarr completing a move to Anfield in the January window, Sage was dismissive. “I don’t think [he will leave]. I don’t think so, because all the clubs are in their season. We have a decision to take about the European list. It’s difficult to move the team when you are in this competition.”

Liverpool’s summer window was a mixed affair. The club completed the signings of La Liga youngster Victor Munoz and PSG forward Bradley Barcola, but neither was considered sufficient to fill the void on the right wing that Salah’s situation has created. The late pursuits of Sarr and Minteh both ended in failure, leaving the club to navigate the opening months of the season without a natural right winger of the calibre they sought.

For Sarr, who enjoyed a strong campaign with Palace last season, the focus now shifts to rediscovering that form — with his manager making clear that a January exit is not part of the plan.