Leeds United Ready Final Push for Wolves Striker Amid Crystal Palace Competition
Leeds United are reportedly preparing what could be their final offer for Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, as the Norwegian international appeared to bid farewell to supporters during Wolves' recent defeat to Bournemouth.
Transfer Saga Intensifies as Striker's Future Hangs in Balance
According to Sky Sports News, Leeds United remain firmly in the race to sign the 25-year-old forward despite earlier reports suggesting Crystal Palace had moved ahead in negotiations. The West Yorkshire club had an initial bid of £33 million plus additional performance-related add-ons rejected earlier in the January transfer window, but have not abandoned their pursuit of the talented striker.
Strand Larsen's emotional response following Wolves' 2-0 loss to Bournemouth has fueled speculation about his imminent departure. The striker, who came on as a 70th-minute substitute replacing Hwang Hee Chan, was seen applauding home supporters at the final whistle in what many interpreted as a farewell gesture.
Crystal Palace Lead Race but Face Complications
Crystal Palace currently emerge as frontrunners in the chase for Strand Larsen's signature, particularly as their current top scorer Jean Philippe Mateta has publicly expressed his desire to leave Selhurst Park. The French striker has been linked with moves to either AC Milan or Nottingham Forest and was notably omitted from Palace's squad for their weekend fixture against Forest.
The Eagles have reportedly tabled an offer worth £45 million plus £5 million in potential add-ons, with sources indicating this package has been verbally agreed by both clubs. However, negotiations have hit potential stumbling blocks regarding minor adjustments requested by Wolves, with some reports suggesting Palace could withdraw from the deal entirely if these issues remain unresolved.
Leeds United's Financial Considerations and Manager's Uncertainty
While Leeds United maintain strong interest in the Norwegian international, financial considerations are playing a significant role in their approach. The Championship club are understood to be unwilling to exceed their £40 million valuation of the player due to Profit and Sustainability Rules concerns, creating a potential obstacle in their pursuit.
Wolves manager Rob Edwards addressed the speculation following the Bournemouth defeat, acknowledging his involvement in the process but offering no definitive clarity about Strand Larsen's future. "We will see. As I said, I don't have a crystal ball now, I don't know," Edwards told BBC Sport. "Some of those things will be out of my control. I will be involved in that process, of course, we will see what happens."
Strand Larsen enjoyed a productive previous season, netting 14 goals across all competitions, making him an attractive prospect for clubs seeking attacking reinforcement during the January transfer window.
