Tottenham playmaker Pape Matar Sarr’s position at the club appears precarious after appearing for just 87 minutes across the entire pre-season schedule.
The Senegal international’s only competitive minutes came during Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Hoffenheim, which was played without spectators.
Recent transfer activity has left Tottenham with considerable depth, and further additions could materialise before the window closes, making Sarr’s prospects increasingly uncertain.
Speaking to football.london last month, Roberto De Zerbi described the former Metz player as essential to his plans after he remained with the squad during their Australian tour. The Italian coach explained that both Bentancur and Sarr were vital components, though the pair had requested additional time away from pre-season duties. Bentancur needed extra recovery following an arduous campaign, while Sarr had personal matters to address. The new Spurs manager emphasised there were no underlying concerns beyond what he had publicly stated.
According to sources close to the situation, Turkish outfit Galatasaray have now emerged as potential suitors, though any move remains conditional on the Istanbul club generating funds through player sales and reaching acceptable terms with Tottenham.
The potential transfer could also depend on whether former Arsenal defensive midfielder Lucas Torreira departs Gala, with his former club Fiorentina monitoring the Uruguayan international’s status.
Galatasaray are simultaneously pursuing other targets, particularly a wide player, with Crystal Palace’s Ismaila Sarr under serious consideration. While a striker appears to be their primary objective, Sarr has entered their thoughts should they shift focus toward reinforcing central midfield positions.
Tottenham’s engine room has become exceptionally competitive following the arrivals of Sandro Tonali from Newcastle and Mateus Fernandes from West Ham, both significant investments. The existing crop including Lucas Bergvall, James Maddison, Bentancur and Archie Gray ensures substantial rivalry for places, leaving the north London side well-equipped in the middle of the pitch.
Sarr did not begin any of the seven Premier League fixtures under De Zerbi last season, though a shoulder injury had limited his availability throughout the period.
The agile 23-year-old, who began the previous campaign in impressive fashion under Thomas Frank’s guidance at Brentford, has attracted interest from various clubs including Aston Villa, Brentford and Al-Ahly.
Brentford are not expected to pursue Sarr after completing a club-record acquisition of Mamadou Sangare from Lens for £38.5million. Sangare is scheduled to feature in Keith Andrews’ side’s Saturday evening fixture against Tottenham at the Gtech Community Stadium.