Newcastle United saw a £55 million offer for striker Jorgen Strand Larsen turned down last summer.
The forward, who had been on the Magpies’ radar as they searched for cover and competition for Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak, is now set to join Crystal Palace after completing a medical ahead of a deadline-day move. Newcastle’s substantial bid was rejected by Wolverhampton Wanderers during the previous window.
Strand Larsen impressed during a loan spell at Wolves from Celta Vigo, scoring 14 goals in 35 Premier League appearances, which led to his move being made permanent in a £23 million deal. Although the Norwegian was keen on a switch to Eddie Howe’s side at the time, he remained professional and did not push for a transfer, later earning an improved contract as a result.
Since then, Newcastle have strengthened their squad elsewhere, completing a combined £124 million double signing of Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa from Stuttgart and Brentford.
The 25-year-old’s form has dipped this season amid a difficult campaign for Wolves, who sit bottom of the Premier League and well adrift of safety. While Strand Larsen scored twice in the Carabao Cup against West Ham and grabbed a hat-trick in the FA Cup versus Shrewsbury Town, he has found the net only once in league action.
With Wolves preparing for a potential rebuild, they have accepted a £48 million bid from Crystal Palace for the striker. He underwent medical checks in south London on Monday as he closes in on completing the move before the transfer deadline.
Earlier this month, Eddie Howe was asked about Newcastle’s previous pursuit of Strand Larsen before their goalless draw with Wolves. The manager praised the striker’s qualities but declined to revisit the failed transfer. Howe highlighted his mobility, strength, and finishing ability, stressing that his side would need to handle those attributes carefully.
At Palace, Strand Larsen is expected to replace Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is reportedly pushing for a move to AC Milan.
Meanwhile, Wolves are lining up a replacement of their own, having agreed a £9 million deal with Southampton for former Newcastle academy player Adam Armstrong.
Leave a Reply