Wolverhampton striker Jørgen Strand Larsen is in demand in the January window, even though this season has not reached the same heights as last time. Wolves, who are in the middle of a turnaround, which it will be exciting to see if they succeed may have to do it without their Norwegian striker.
The interest in the Norwegian striker is increasing daily. Approaching a dozen clubs have now made contact regarding a potential January deal, and one Premier League club has emerged as a strong candidate to sign him.
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The Norwegian international had an excellent season for Wolves last year, with 14 goals in 38 games for “The Old Gold”. Although they turned down two bids from Newcastle in the summer – the other for a total of £55 million – their attitude towards a sale has changed significantly over the past few months.
As we revealed last week, Wolves are ready to sell if their demanded price of £40 million is met. The club seems determined to cash in on their assets while still in the Premier League, and at the same time, they are preparing for their now inevitable relegation to the Championship. – Due to the great interest, the bosses at Wolverhampton seem to be able to jack up the price again.
A couple of days ago, the news broke that Leeds United had been contacted by intermediaries trying to broker a deal. Talk of a possible move to Elland Road was also sparked at the weekend when the striker’s agent witnessed Leeds’ 1-0 win over Fulham, a game that saw Daniel Farke’s side bolster their survival prospects.
Now, sources at Molineux can confirm that there have been inquiries for the in-demand striker not only from the Premier League, but also from the Bundesliga and Serie A.
Although Leeds United are still interested, a deal to bring the 25-year-old striker (with six goals this season) to West Yorkshire is difficult for the Whites to complete. This is not least due to the fact that the club is trying to keep its finances tight.
However, Leeds are eager to sign a new striker; they are likely to explore whether a loan deal with an option to buy can be concluded, as the club cannot meet Wolves’ demand in the current situation.
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The competition for Strand Larsen intensifies after Crystal Palace comes into the picture strongly
In addition to Leeds, we have learned that both Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest are also well in the hunt. All three clubs are convinced that the Norwegian could be a significant upgrade for their attacking options in January.
However, the race is now much wider than just this trio, and we understand that Crystal Palace – who are seeking a replacement for Jean-Philippe Mateta after the Frenchman continues to attract attention from Juventus – are ready to show their cards in the transfer race.
We exclusively revealed that the “Eagles” have seen attempts to sign Callum Wilson blocked by West Ham. Their owner, David Sullivan, has now decided to keep the experienced striker after his assassinating goal that secured victory against Tottenham on Saturday.
As for Strand Larsen, he was initially brought to Molineux by the current sporting director of Palace, Matt Hobbs. So it is perhaps not so surprising to see the Norwegian international being tipped for a move to Selhurst Park this month.
As of now, sources confirm that around ten clubs have made formal or informal enquiries so far, and that number is expected to increase this week.
Crucially, however, we learn that the player himself is open to a swap this month. This was reflected by Wolves manager Rob Edwards’ decision to start him on the bench in Sunday’s goalless draw against Newcastle.
Those close to Strand Larsen say that he is attracted by the opportunity to join a team that competes higher up the table, and is prepared to take the step if the right offer comes.
With the player open to a swap and Wolves willing to sell at the right price, the situation is expected to develop quickly. Several clubs are preparing new proposals.
