This article is part of Football League World’s ‘The Verdict’ series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…
Crystal Palace have joined the race for £30 million-rated Watford forward Ismaila Sarr, according to the Evening Standard.
The Senegal international has remained with the Hornets despite the relegation to the Championship but has drawn links to a number of Premier League clubs.
Palace are the last side to be linked but would it be a good signing for the Eagles? And should Watford cash in?
We quizzed our FLW writers for their thoughts...
Josh Cole
Whereas Palace are currently able to turn to the likes of Wilfried Zaha and Jordan Ayew for inspiration in the wide positions, Ismaila Sarr would be a great addition to their squad if they are able to convince Watford to part ways with him this summer.
During his career to date, the Senegal international has illustrated some real signs of promise in the top-flight as he has provided 18 direct goal contributions for the Hornets in this division.
Given that Palace will be able to provide Sarr with the opportunity to play in the Premier League again, he may be tempted to make the switch to Selhurst Park.
With the window set to close at the start of September, Palace will unquestionably need to move quickly when it comes to this particular pursuit.
Ned Holmes
This looks like it could be a match made in heaven really.
Palace have long made use of pacey and skillful wide forwards so Ismaila Sarr should fit in perfectly.
Patrick Vieira has built a strong nucleus of young players and Sarr would be on brand with that as well.
Looking long-term, the Watford attacker could be a replacement for Wilfried Zaha. That's a big call but the Senegal international has a really bright future ahead of him.
If he's keen a move back to the top flight and the money is right then the Hornets shouldn't stand in his way.
They've strengthened already this summer and have squad packed full of quality while they will also be able to reinvest some of the cash received for him to bring in a replacement.
Billy Mulley
It will of course be a big shame for Watford fans if they are to lose Ismailia Sarr and João Pedro this summer, with Emmanuel Dennis also heading for pastures new.
Sarr is certainly of Premier League quality and it is no surprise that he has generated the amount of interest he has thus far, with Crystal Palace being an exclusive excellent destination for younger players to thrive at.
He would have to work his way into the team at Palace, should a move come to fruition, but then there is every chance he could go and emerge as a starter under Patrick Vieira’s stewardship.
Ultimately, Watford will be eager to keep hold of Sarr, so that their frontline does not completely change, but with the figure that is being touted, it will certainly help the health of the club.