Newcastle United are reportedly working on an eye-catching double swoop for two Wolves players as they look to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window.
According to Chronicle Live, the Magpies have endured a stop-start campaign and currently sit ninth in the Premier League table, five points adrift of the Champions League places.
Despite significant investment during the summer, Eddie Howe is keen to add further quality as he looks to guide Newcastle back into Europe’s elite competition for a second consecutive season.
With Premier League experience a priority, Newcastle are believed to be monitoring opportunities at clubs struggling this term — and Wolves have emerged as a potential target.
Newcastle tracking Wolves pair
Lee Ryder reports that Newcastle are interested in Wolves striker Jørgen Strand Larsen and teenage winger Mateus Mané. The club’s head of recruitment, Steve Nickson, was in attendance as Wolves defeated West Ham 3-0 at the weekend, using the opportunity to assess both players firsthand.
Howe is understood to have funds available should he choose to act in January, although securing Strand Larsen would still represent a significant outlay. The Norwegian forward is thought to carry a price tag of around £50 million, despite Newcastle having a £55 million bid rejected during the summer window.
Wolves’ difficult season has reportedly led to a reduction in their valuation, but Newcastle would still face competition, with Tottenham also believed to be tracking the striker.
Strand Larsen made a strong impression in his first Premier League campaign, scoring 14 goals last season to help Wolves steer clear of relegation. However, following months of transfer speculation, his form has dipped this term and he has yet to open his account.
Meanwhile, 18-year-old Mateus Mané remains a developing prospect. The youngster has made 10 senior appearances for Wolves and has been trusted with starts in each of their last three matches under Rob Edwards.
Champions League key to Newcastle’s next step
Newcastle’s rise in recent seasons has been notable, but progress has been restricted by Profit and Sustainability Rules despite the club’s wealthy ownership. Securing Champions League qualification is viewed as crucial to boosting revenue and maintaining momentum.
A double deal for Larsen and Mané could represent smart business, though questions remain over whether both players possess the quality required to elevate Newcastle to the next level. That said, if favourable terms can be agreed, the additions could provide Howe with the tools needed to push towards his short-term objectives.
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