The transfer saga surrounding Jorgen Strand Larsen intensifies as Crystal Palace refuse to back down! 🦅
Despite a potential deal with Wolves for the striker hitting a snag, Palace remain determined to secure his signature. Negotiations had progressed well, with a verbal agreement for a £45 million transfer fee plus an additional £5 million in add-ons. But here's the twist: the add-ons are now a sticking point, with some adjustments still to be agreed upon.
But wait, there's more! Leeds United are also in the mix, but they won't budge beyond £40 million. This transfer has become a real tug-of-war, with both clubs vying for Larsen's services.
The Norway international will be in the Wolves squad for their Premier League clash against Bournemouth this Saturday, according to Wolves manager Rob Edwards. Meanwhile, Wolves are eyeing Che Adams from Torino as a potential replacement for Larsen.
The situation gets even more intriguing when we consider Jean-Philippe Mateta's future. AC Milan and Nottingham Forest have both tabled offers of around £35 million for the French striker. Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has confirmed that Mateta won't feature in Sunday's game against Forest, as he doesn't feel ready to play. The club is keen to bring in a replacement before letting Mateta go.
In other news, Palace are close to finalising a loan deal with Aston Villa for forward Evann Guessand, despite late interest from Juventus. Sky Sports News revealed an intriguing detail: the deal includes a £28 million obligation to buy if Guessand makes a certain number of appearances. This move is expected to go through regardless of the outcome of the Larsen pursuit.
Mateta's absence from the Forest game is confirmed, with AC Milan's offer playing a role. Milan is willing to pay £35 million for a permanent move in the summer but wants an initial loan with an obligation to buy now. Glasner insists it's not transfer-related, but rather a matter of Mateta's mindset.
Milan's pursuit of Mateta is no longer tied to finding a new club for Christopher Nkunku. They will explore options for the former Chelsea forward if they can secure Mateta's services.
Controversy alert! Despite ongoing talks with Palace, Strand Larsen will be part of the Wolves squad this weekend. Edwards confirmed this, but remained tight-lipped about the negotiations. Leeds are still in the race, but will they increase their offer? And what does the future hold for Mateta?
Leeds' interest in Strand Larsen is notable, but they won't exceed their £40 million valuation. This fee would break their transfer record, surpassing the £35.5 million paid for Georginio Rutter in 2023. They plan to structure the deal in installments due to Premier League financial regulations.
Strand Larsen, who attracted multiple rejected bids from Newcastle in the summer, has struggled this season, scoring just six goals in all competitions for Wolves. With only one Premier League goal this campaign, his future is uncertain as Wolves face relegation.
The Norwegian striker did score a hat-trick against Shrewsbury in the FA Cup, but his other two goals came in the Carabao Cup. He's keen to remain in the Premier League if he leaves Wolves.
Guessand's loan move to Palace includes a £28 million obligation to buy, triggered by appearance conditions. He's agreed to a four-year contract at Selhurst Park if the deal becomes permanent. The move is nearly complete, with a medical scheduled for Friday.
So, will Palace secure Larsen's signature? Will Leeds up their offer? And what's next for Mateta? The transfer window is heating up, and these questions are keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
