Sources close to Ismaila Sarr reportedly accept that the financial climate may allow Watford to keep the forward for at least one more season despite strong interest from the likes of Crystal Palace.

The 23-year-old has been a key man as the Hornets have bounced back from relegation and secured promotion to the top flight – scoring 13 times and adding 10 assists.

Sarr has been heavily linked with a move away from the club in the past two windows and it looks as though there will be interest again this summer, with The Sun on Sunday (11/04, page 67) reporting he's top of Palace's list of targets.

Aston Villa and Everton have also been touted as potential suitors, while it is understood that there is strong interest from Germany and France as well.

According to The Athletic, however, keeping the Senegal international ahead of their return to the top flight is Watford's top priority this summer.

The report claims that sources close to Sarr accept that the current financial climate may play into the Hornets' hands and mean he remains at Vicarage Road for at least another season.

The Verdict

This looks like fantastic news for Watford.

Sources recently revealed to Football League World that the club expect to keep hold of Sarr this summer, which will be a huge boost to their hopes of extending their stay in the Premier League, and it seems those close to the player understand that the financial climate means that may have to happen.

That would indicate that the 23-year-old is unlikely to try and force a move away and recognises that staying a further season at Vicarage Road may be a positive next step.