A report from BBC has confirmed that Crystal Palace have agreed a deal in principle worth in the region of £50 million to sign Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, which is believed to also lead to the exit of Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta to Nottingham Forest. Strand Larsen has only scored 1 goal in 21 Premier League appearances this season. However, Wolves as a whole have been horrible this season so it isn't the biggest surprise. The Norwegian forward has been considered to be one of the most promising strikers in the Premier League in recent years, and was even a big target for Eddie Howe's Newcastle side last summer.
Transfer report confirms Jørgen Strand Larsen deal has been agreed between Crystal Palace and Wolves
The BBC report states that Crystal Palace are stepping up their pursuit of the 25-year-old striker, with sources telling BBC Sport that their interest has intensified over the last 24 hours and a formal bid is now being prepared.
Palace recently broke their transfer record by signing Brennan Johnson for £35 million, but a move for Strand Larsen would go beyond that figure. Wolves are open to selling the Norway international this month, but only if their valuation is met, having already turned down a £55m offer from Newcastle in the summer.
Leeds United have also tried their luck, seeing a £40m bid rejected, and are currently unwilling to increase their offer significantly.
Crystal Palace's Strand Larsen transfer to speed up Jean-Philippe Mateta exit
The BBC report further states that Jean-Philippe Mateta has made it clear he wants to leave Crystal Palace, with the striker informing the club’s hierarchy of his desire to move on. Nottingham Forest are expected to return with an improved bid after seeing an initial £35m offer rejected, and sources suggest they are ready to step up their pursuit.
The 28-year-old has also attracted strong interest from European giants Juventus and AC Milan. While Mateta is keen on playing Champions League football, a switch to Nottingham Forest is viewed as a financially attractive option, with Forest now looking to move quickly. Coincidentally, Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace are set to face each other in the Premier League on Sunday. Because of that upcoming fixture, no transfer agreement is expected to be reached before the match.
Our opinion on Strand Larsen's potential transfer to Crystal Palace
We feel like this is a win-win situation for all involved if the transfer goes through. Despite his underwhelming season for Wolves, Strand Larsen has always been considered to be a player with great potential and a move to Crystal Palace might help him get back his spark. Wolves, on the other hand, will get some much needed money to make transfers elsewhere and improve the squad. Finally, Jean-Philippe Mateta will be able to make his desired move to whichever club he wants. There are no losers here, and everyone can move forward happily.
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