Gary Neville's prediction for "big talent" fails to materialise after £15m transfer abroad

Gary Neville urged his former employers Manchester United to keep an eye on an exciting Premier League winger three years ago - but a transfer never materialised

Ismaila Sarr, who was once described as a "big talent" by Gary Neville, has completed a €18million (£15.5m) transfer from Watford to Marseille.

Sarr, 25, was tipped to become a Premier League star after joining Watford in August 2019. The Senegal international showed glimpses of his quality during his time in England - scoring 34 goals in four seasons with the Hornets - but also suffered two relegations.

Sarr found the net 10 times and provided six assists in the Championship last season. He was often described as one of the best players in that division and a move seemed inevitable after Watford's failure to achieve promotion to the Premier League.

Watford paid more than £25m to sign Sarr from Rennes four years ago and will be relieved to recuperate much of that cash, as the winger had entered the final year of his contract at Vicarage Road. He's signed a five-year deal with Marseille.

In a tribute to Sarr posted on their website, Watford have thanked Sarr for producing "several standout moments that will live long in Watford folklore". The statement continued: "Thanks for the memories Isma, and good luck for the future!"

Sarr penned an emotional message to Watford fans after the transfer was completed. He wrote on social media: "I wanted to say a heartfelt goodbye and a huge thank you to each and every one of you. The past four years with this club have been absolutely incredible, and your unwavering support has meant the world to me.

"Your passion and cheers from the stands have motivated me on the field, and I will forever cherish the memories we've created together. I want to express my gratitude to the entire club for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to be a part of this amazing family... a piece of my heart will always remain with Watford and its amazing supporters."

Sarr, who was named as Watford's Player of the Season after inspiring them to Premier League promotion in May 2021, picked up many admirers during his time in England. One of those was Neville, who waxed lyrical about him in July 2020.

Watford had just lost 3-1 to West Ham, reducing their chances of Premier League survival. Speaking on The Gary Neville Podcast, the Sky Sports pundit said: "Manchester United need a right winger. He’s a big, big talent, honestly he really is.

"We’ve seen his performances before but tonight he was a shining light, even in that first half there were periods where Watford did attack and it was through him. So yeah he’ll be sought after and Watford will, I’m sure, cash in if they get the right bid."

Neville, a former full-back, admired Sarr's "pace" and added: "When you let him have the ball, he can get it out of his feet and whip ridiculously good crosses in. So that’s when you’re thinking about the fact that you’ve got a real problem, as a full-back."

Although Watford were relegated that year, a move to another Premier League club never materialised. It's believed Liverpool were interested in signing him during the summer of 2020, but they refused to pay £40m up front for the exciting talent.

The Reds decided to move for Diogo Jota instead because Wolves accepted just £4m up front for the Portuguese forward, with a further £41m coming in installments. Now 26, Jota is flourishing on Merseyside - despite enduring terrible luck with injuries.