Senegalese winger Ismaila Sarr appears set to depart Crystal Palace, with Turkish club Fenerbahce closing in on a deal that could be finalised within hours — dealing a blow to Manchester United, who had been monitoring the attacker.

Italian transfer outlet Tuttomercatoweb reports that Fenerbahce are in advanced talks with Crystal Palace, pushing hard to secure Sarr's signature imminently. Meanwhile, French outlet Foot Mercato has confirmed that Manchester United did make enquiries earlier in the transfer window, though those discussions never progressed to a formal bid.

Sarr's admiration for United

Sarr himself has made no secret of his affection for the Red Devils. A post on X, relayed by Senegalese social media account Joueurs SN, quoted the winger as saying, "I love Manchester United with all my heart, and I'm a huge fan." However, a more measured statement from Sarr, carried by Senegalese news agency APS, indicated his future was not entirely in his own hands: "I have a three-year contract with Crystal Palace; it's up to them to decide."

Fenerbahce's second choice

Sarr is understood to be Fenerbahce's alternative target after AC Milan forward Rafael Leao rejected a move to the Turkish Super Lig. Milan had received a formal offer from the Istanbul club for Leao, who ultimately turned it down.

Palace's summer so far

Crystal Palace have yet to bring in any new signings this summer under new manager Pierre Sage. Their transfer business is under greater scrutiny following the January departure of Marc Guehi, while the long-term futures of Jean-Philippe Mateta and Adam Wharton also remain unresolved.

Sarr has been one of Palace's standout performers since returning to the Premier League, stepping into the role vacated by Michael Olise. His contribution was central to the club winning their first three trophies — the FA Cup, the Community Shield, and the UEFA Europa League. Transfermarkt values the Senegalese international at €45 million.

Manchester United, who open their Premier League campaign away at Hull City on August 22, are still expected to add an attacker before the transfer deadline closes.