Liverpool have new £80m transfer headache as Ismaila Sarr makes stance clear

Posted Thursday, August 19, 2021 by Express.co.uk

Liverpool have long been linked with a move to sign Ismaila Sarr from Watford.

Liverpool have reportedly discovered it would take a bid in the region of £80million for Watford to consider selling Ismalia Sarr. Jurgen Klopp has made it clear this summer that any more incomings before the transfer window closes will only happen if players more players are sold.

The money used to sign Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig has largely been recouped from the sales of Marko Grujic, Harry Wilson and other youth players.

Earlier in the summer, multiple reports suggested another midfielder and attacking player were on Liverpool's wishlist for the summer transfer window.

Replacing Georginio Wijnaldum was originally seen as imperative as the Netherlands international was the most used midfielder over the past two seasons.

But Klopp has since indicated that he has more than enough options at his disposal already, with both Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Harvey Elliott expected to feature more heavily this season.

Liverpool have new £80m transfer headache as Ismaila Sarr makes stance clear
Ismaila Sarr continues to be linked to Liverpool (Image: GETTY)

However, there are still question marks over the futures of both Xherdan Shaqiri and Divock Origi.

Should at least one leave then Liverpool will quickly find themselves short of options up front, particularly with the Africa Cup of Nations taking place from January.

Shaqiri is attracting the most attention from elsewhere, while it has been suggested Origi may look to force through an exit for regular minutes.

Liverpool would then need to find a replacement in the final few days of the transfer window.

Sarr has long been linked with a move to Anfield, ever since he starred in Watford's shock 3-0 win over Liverpool in March 2020.

Reports in Italy now claim that Liverpool have retained their interest in Sarr and are prepared to splash out £40m on a move.

However, Sky Sports' Dharmesh Sheth claims Liverpool would have to double that offer for Watford to even consider selling.

"I'm told that Sarr has not asked to leave and the quote I was given, 'He wouldn't ask to leave, he is happy'," Sheth said on Sky Sports.

Liverpool have new £80m transfer headache as Ismaila Sarr makes stance clear
Ismaila Sarr hit the headlines for Watford against Liverpool in March 2020 (Image: GETTY)

"Furthermore, Watford simply not looking to sell Ismaila Sarr.

"He's got a contract until 2024 and it would take silly money.

"One number I was given was £80m for Watford to even consider coming to the table."