Report: Crystal Palace Pushing to Beat Everton in the Race to Sign Former Premier League Forward | OneFootball

Crystal Palace Transfers: Strategic Moves Ahead of the New Season

As reported by Foot Mercato, Crystal Palace are intensifying efforts to secure Ismaila Sarr from Marseille, demonstrating a proactive approach in the transfer market under manager Oliver Glasner. The London-based club, fresh from a robust finish last season, is navigating a significant transition, particularly in their attacking lineup.

With Michael Olise’s recent £50 million transfer to Bayern Munich, Palace’s need for a dynamic winger has heightened. Sarr, whose Premier League experience with Watford includes an impressive tally of 34 goals and 22 assists, emerges as an ideal candidate. The former Watford star’s versatility across the front line could prove invaluable as Palace looks to maintain momentum from their strong season end.

Contract Talks Progress Amid Competitive Interest

While Everton have historically shown interest in Sarr, it appears their focus has shifted towards other prospects, leaving the door open for Palace to advance. Foot Mercato highlights that a contract proposal has been dispatched to Sarr’s camp, with negotiations ongoing. This move underscores Palace’s determination to enhance their squad depth and quality, anticipating potential departures of key players like Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi.

Photo: IMAGO

Glasner’s Tactical Vision and Squad Reinforcements

Oliver Glasner’s first full season at the helm comes with high expectations, and the signings of Chadi Riad and Daichi Kamada reflect a clear strategic direction. The potential addition of Sarr would not only compensate for Olise’s departure but also bolster Palace’s offensive capabilities, essential for sustaining their upward trajectory in the competitive Premier League landscape.

Financial Strategy and Long-Term Club Vision

The sales of high-profile players present a dual challenge and opportunity for Crystal Palace. The generated funds must be judiciously reinvested to ensure both immediate impact and long-term sustainability. Sarr’s acquisition could be a testament to Palace’s ambitious and strategic planning, aiming to build a team capable of competing at the highest levels.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index: Ismaila Sarr’s Comprehensive Impact

Breaking Down Sarr’s Attacking Prowess

Analysing Ismaila Sarr’s performance data from the past 365 days, provided by Fbref, reveals a multifaceted winger whose contributions on the field are substantial yet varied. Sarr’s strengths, particularly in non-penalty goals and expected goals (xG), highlight his ability to be in the right place at the right time, scoring an impressive percentile rank of 73 and 58 respectively among attacking midfielders and wingers.

What stands out most prominently is his ranking in successful take-ons, placing him in the 73rd percentile. This statistic not only underscores his agility and skill in one-on-one situations but also his vital role in breaking down defensive setups, making him a key offensive asset for his team.

Possession and Playmaking Skills

While Sarr’s direct contributions to scoring are notable, his deeper involvement in playmaking is essential yet shows room for improvement. His rankings in progressive carries and passes (both at the 39th percentile) suggest that while he is capable of advancing the ball, the consistency and impact of these movements could be enhanced to elevate his overall influence in matches.

His percentile for shot-creating actions, a modest 53, indicates a player who is involved in build-up play but perhaps not as dominantly as one might expect from a leading winger. This area represents a potential focal point for development, aiming to convert his obvious dribbling skills into more concrete playmaking outcomes.

Defensive Contributions Reflect Adaptability

On the defensive end, Sarr shows an unexpected adeptness, especially noted in his blocks and clearances where he scores high percentiles (87 and 75, respectively). These statistics reflect his willingness and capability to contribute defensively, an attribute not always prioritized by players in his position.

This holistic view of Ismaila Sarr’s stats over the past year emphasizes not just a player of mere speed and skill, but one of tactical adaptability and potential growth. As he continues to refine his abilities, his comprehensive approach to the game could see him become an even more integral part of his team’s strategy.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Crystal Palace fans, the prospect of signing Ismaila Sarr could be seen as a significant statement of intent from the club’s management. Sarr’s Premier League experience and his proven track record at Watford make him a potentially exciting addition to the squad. His ability to play in multiple attacking positions would provide Oliver Glasner with much-needed flexibility and depth, particularly important if the likes of Eberechi Eze move on this summer.

There’s a genuine optimism that Sarr can rediscover his best form under Glasner’s guidance, akin to his Watford days. Fans would remember his electrifying pace and ability to change games, traits that could thrive in Glasner’s dynamic system. However, there’s also a cautious element among the supporters, mindful of the challenges in replacing a player of Olise’s calibre and the broader implications if Eze and others depart.

Ultimately, securing Sarr would not only reflect well on Palace’s ambition but also their capability to navigate the complex transfer market effectively, outmanoeuvring competitors like Everton. As a Crystal Palace supporter, seeing the club actively strengthening the squad and potentially securing a player of Sarr’s potential ahead of other Premier League sides would certainly ignite excitement for the upcoming season.