Leeds United are preparing a significant January move for Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, with the Norwegian forward valued at around £40 million. The Whites have formally registered their interest in the 25-year-old as they seek to bolster their attacking options in the fight for Premier League survival.
Leeds Launch Official Enquiry for Struggling Striker
According to reports from The Athletic, Leeds have informed Wolves of their intentions by making an official enquiry for Larsen's services this month. As of now, an official bid has not been submitted, but the interest from Elland Road is concrete. The West Yorkshire club are currently 16th in the table, eight points clear of the relegation zone, and believe Larsen's potential from his impressive debut season in England could be reignited.
Larsen's journey to Molineux began with a loan move from Spanish side Celta Vigo in the summer of 2024, which included a £25 million option to buy that Wolves subsequently activated. His first campaign was a resounding success, as he adapted quickly to English football, scoring on his second appearance against Chelsea and finishing with 14 goals and four assists in the league. His potent partnership with Matheus Cunha was instrumental in a late-season six-match winning streak that secured Wolves' top-flight status.
A Drastic Drop in Form and Value
The current season, however, has told a different story. Following the summer departures of key attackers Cunha and Rayan Ait-Nouri, Larsen has struggled immensely for form and consistency. In 19 Premier League appearances this term, he has managed just one goal and one assist. Alarmingly, his only league goal was a penalty against Burnley, with no strikes from open play to his name.
This dramatic drop-off has seen his market value plummet. Wolves reportedly rejected a substantial £55 million offer from Newcastle United last summer. Now, with the club rooted to the bottom of the table and 14 points from safety, they are said to have slashed their valuation to approximately £40 million. The club is believed to be considering cashing in while his value remains relatively high, fearing a further decrease if relegation is confirmed.
Competition and Leeds's Stance
Leeds are not alone in their interest. Nottingham Forest are also monitoring Larsen as they seek a replacement for the injured Chris Wood. However, West Ham United have reportedly withdrawn from the race due to Wolves' asking price.
For Leeds, the potential signing represents a gamble based on proven past performance. The club has greatly benefited from the goals of Dominic Calvert-Lewin but remains in the market for additional firepower. They are said to see the potential Larsen displayed not only at Wolves but also during his time at Celta Vigo, where he scored 13 league goals in the 2023/24 campaign.
Any major move may require Leeds to navigate the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) by offloading players first before committing significant funds. Larsen's recent circumstances have been difficult; he was dropped from the starting lineup for Wolves' last four league matches, though he did offer a reminder of his ability with a hat-trick in the FA Cup against Shrewsbury Town.
The coming weeks will be critical for all parties. Wolves face a monumental task to avoid relegation, and selling a key asset in January would be a clear signal of their expectations. For Jorgen Strand Larsen, a move to Leeds United could offer a vital fresh start and the chance to rediscover the form that once made him one of the most sought-after strikers in the league.
