Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly turned down a £30 million opening offer from Leeds United for striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, with the Molineux club holding out for a figure closer to £40 million.
According to TEAMtalk, Leeds United have identified the 25-year-old Norwegian international as a priority target to bolster their attacking options before the January window shuts. While the Whites, who entered the top flight as 2024/25 Championship winners, were willing to commit a significant sum, the Black Country outfit is standing firm on their valuation. Compounding the situation for Leeds is the emergence of Crystal Palace as a serious rival for the forward’s signature.
Strand Larsen’s Premier League Journey
Since arriving from Celta Vigo—initially on loan 18 months ago before making the move permanent last summer—Strand Larsen has experienced a series of highs and lows at Molineux. After an impressive debut campaign, his form in the 2025/26 season has been somewhat erratic.
2025/26 Season Statistics:
- Appearances: 24 (All Competitions)
- Goals: 6
- Assists: 2
- Physical Profile: 6’4” (1.93m)
- Market Valuation: £40 million
Despite a dip in consistency compared to his debut year, his physical profile and potential continue to keep his market value high, leading to the current £40 million price tag set by Wolves management.
A Battle of Tactical Needs
The race for Strand Larsen is driven by specific tactical requirements at both interested clubs:
- Crystal Palace: The Eagles are scanning the market due to the mounting uncertainty surrounding Jean-Philippe Mateta. While the club would prefer to keep the Frenchman, Mateta is reportedly eyeing a move this month, making Strand Larsen an ideal replacement for their front line.
- Leeds United: Manager Daniel Farke has recently seen success with a 3-5-2 formation. To sustain this resurgent run, the hierarchy wants to provide a high-quality partner for Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Strand Larsen is viewed as the perfect physical counterpart to lead the line in Farke’s system.
The Road Ahead
With the winter deadline approaching, Leeds United must now decide whether to increase their bid to meet the £40 million requirement or risk losing the player to a Premier League rival. For Wolves, the situation is comfortable; they have a valuable asset under contract and a clear price point for any club wishing to do business. Whether Leeds can bridge the £10 million gap remains the key question for the final weeks of the window.
