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Arsenal braced for transfer blow as Watford set to snap up Wilfried Zaha alternative
WATFORD are close to completing a record deal for Rennes star Ismaila Sarr, whom Arsenal are interested in signing as well if their bid for Wilfried Zaha fails.
Arsenal target Ismaila Sarr shares intense training session
The Ligue 1 club wants £27million for Sarr but the Hornets’ valuation is closer to £22m so there is still some way to go to meet the actual asking price.
But Rennes president Olivier Letang admits they may be unable to keep the Senegal international in their ranks before the transfer window slams shut next month.
According to the Daily Mirror, Letang claims only Watford have shown real interest but Sky Sports report that Arsenal also see the highly-rated winger as an alternative to Zaha if they fail to sign him from Crystal Palace.
The Rennes president said: “Only Watford have shown a real interest in the player.
Only Watford have shown a real interest in the player
“We would be very happy if Isma stayed with us another year, but it's a strong possibility he will go if we receive an offer we can't refuse.”
Arsenal have been trying to land Zaha throughout the summer transfer window but Crystal Palace have been adamant on their asking price of £80m.
Palace are insisting the same way they did with Aaron Wan-Bissaka, for whom Manchester United had to pay a staggering £50m.
But that is a major issue for the Gunners as they are operating on a shoestring budget of £45m.
The north London club is willing to offer £55million with £10m dependent on clauses as well as rising talent Reiss Nelson on loan.
However, the Eagles have rejected the latest approach claiming that is nowhere near enough.
Sarr is seen as a a good alternative as he enjoyed an impressive season in France with Rennes.
The winger scored 13 goals and produced 11 assists in 50 appearances.
But the Senegalese looks set to become Watford’s record signing, eclipsing the £18m paid for Andre Gray two years ago.
The Hornets may look to balance the books if they sign Sarr by selling Roberto Pereyra for no less than £25m.