After Crystal Palace embarrassed Aston Villa on Saturday, the Villans went out and agreed a £25m deal with Watford for Ismaila Sarr.
Steven Gerrard decided he needed more firepower after seeing his side struggle in south London, but now, it looks as if the Senegal international will not be moving to Villa Park.
What’s the story?
Well, according to Sky Sports, talks between Aston Villa and Sarr have now collapsed.
Negotiations over a £25m move have fizzled out after Gerrard began to harbour reservations about the deal, while problems also arose when discussing deals to send Kortney Hause or Cameron Archer the other way on loan.
Sarr was due to have a medical in Birmingham, but his future is now in limbo.
However, Crystal Palace remain interested and are monitoring the situation – according to The Athletic.
In our view, Aston Villa putting an end to negotiations could do Patrick Vieira a massive favour.
Aston Villa hand Crystal Palace a lifeline
So, what is the favour?
Well, in July 2023, the Eagles are set to lose Wilfried Zaha on a free transfer.
Of course, the Ivorian could sign a new deal, but after handing in a transfer request back in 2019, we presume he will take the opportunity to leave for Champions League football if offered the chance.
At that point, sides will be aware of just how important Zaha was to Crystal Palace, and may overcharge the Eagles as they look to take advantage of their desperation to find a replacement.
However, if the south Londoners pounce on Aston Villa’s decision to leave Sarr at Watford, they can save themselves a task next summer.
The Villans already agreed a £25m fee – so Crystal Palace know the asking price – and The Athletic believe Sarr is keen to play Premier League football again.
Keep an eye on this situation, as a late bid from Crystal Palace would not surprise us one bit.
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