Crystal Palace Intensify Pursuit of Wolves Forward Jørgen Strand-Larsen
Crystal Palace have escalated their efforts to secure the signature of Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Jørgen Strand-Larsen before the January transfer window closes. The Eagles are now leading the race for the Norwegian international, having submitted an improved proposal to Wolves.
Transfer Battle Heats Up as Palace Outbid Leeds United
This development comes after Leeds United saw a £33 million bid, with potential add-ons reaching £6 million, rejected by Wolves last week. The Midlands club are holding out for a £40 million fee for the forward, having previously turned down multiple offers from Newcastle United during the summer transfer window.
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the situation on Thursday morning, stating: "Crystal Palace improved their proposal to sign Jørgen Strand-Larsen from Wolves. Talks underway with player's camp to seal the deal."
Strand-Larsen's Form and Potential Impact at Selhurst Park
The 24-year-old striker enjoyed a productive Premier League campaign last season, netting 14 goals and providing four assists across 35 appearances. However, his form has dipped significantly this term, with just one goal and one assist in 21 outings as Wolves struggle against relegation.
Should Palace successfully complete the signing, it would represent a significant coup for manager Oliver Glasner, who is seeking additional leadership and firepower in his attacking options.
Potential Departure of Jean-Philippe Mateta Looms
The potential arrival of Strand-Larsen could facilitate the departure of current Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has been linked with a move away from Selhurst Park this month. Nottingham Forest have already submitted a £35 million bid for the French international, who has been one of Palace's standout performers in recent seasons.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown recently told Football Insider: "I believe Crystal Palace are prepared to let him go. To a large extent, it's been taken out of their hands because he's made it clear he wants to leave, and he's not happy at the club any more."
Brown elaborated on the situation, noting that Mateta's recent call-up to the France national squad has complicated matters, and that Palace are reluctant to retain unhappy players who might underperform.
Transfer Domino Effect and Financial Considerations
The potential transfer creates a domino effect in the January market. While Juventus had shown previous interest in Mateta, the Italian giants are reportedly unwilling to meet Palace's £40 million valuation for the striker.
Brown emphasised the importance of Palace securing a replacement before sanctioning Mateta's departure: "The crucial thing then is that they go and get a replacement because they can't afford to weaken the squad any more than it already has been."
As negotiations continue, all parties will be working against the clock with the January transfer window rapidly approaching its conclusion. The outcome could significantly impact the relegation battle and European qualification race in the Premier League's second half.
