Fenerbahce are increasingly turning their attention to Senegal winger Ismaila Sarr, with the Istanbul club ready to move for the attacker if efforts to land Rafael Leao fail this summer.
The Turkish side are understood to be tracking Sarr closely as they draw up alternative options in the transfer market, with the 26-year-old emerging as the leading back-up plan should negotiations for Leao break down.
Rafael Leao remains Fenerbahce’s priority and the Portuguese forward is still viewed as the ideal attacking addition. But the club’s hierarchy are thought to have identified Sarr as their preferred secondary target if they are unable to secure an agreement for Leao.
Sarr’s profile has risen sharply during the current transfer window following an eye-catching FIFA World Cup campaign for Senegal, in which he scored four goals. Those performances have reinforced his status as one of the more attractive attacking options available this summer.
The winger’s impact on the international stage has drawn interest from across Europe and strengthened his reputation ahead of the new season. His World Cup form has been a key factor in increasing his market value and placing him firmly on the radar of clubs looking to add pace and goals from wide areas.
Premier League clubs have already monitored his situation, with Manchester United among the English sides previously linked with a move for the Senegal international. Interest in Sarr is no longer confined to England, however, as teams from other major European leagues assess potential bids.
Fenerbahce weigh up options
Fenerbahce’s growing focus on Sarr introduces a new possible destination for the forward, who is expected to be one of the prominent names in this summer’s transfer discussions. The Turkish club want to reinforce their attacking line and see the Senegalese winger as a player capable of making an immediate impact if a deal can be struck.
For now, Fenerbahce are still pushing to reach a deal for Rafael Leao and that pursuit remains at the top of their agenda. Yet reports indicate that the club’s recruitment team have effectively placed Sarr at the head of their shortlist of alternatives in case their attempts to sign the Portuguese forward do not come to fruition.
Sarr’s four goals at the World Cup underlined his finishing ability and helped highlight his threat in the final third. Those displays not only boosted his reputation but also ensured renewed interest from clubs eager to strengthen their squads before the new campaign begins.
Summer race expected
With his World Cup showings keeping him in the spotlight, Sarr is widely expected to stay central to transfer speculation throughout the window. His performances have ensured sustained demand for his services, with several clubs monitoring developments and weighing up whether to formalise their interest.
Fenerbahce’s entry into the chase adds extra competition for his signature and could intensify negotiations around any potential move. As the Turkish club attempt to reshape their attacking options, Sarr has emerged as a realistic and attractive solution if their main target, Rafael Leao, ultimately proves out of reach.
