On Monday afternoon, The Express and Star reported that Newcastle United launched a £50m bid for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen.
This was rejected by the Midlands club, but it seems the club remain hopeful that a deal could be done, as two North East reporters explain.
Mark Douglas of the i Paper reveals that ‘positive discussions’ have taken place, giving Newcastle encouragement to make their opening offer and continue pursuing a deal for the big Norwegian, with a new bid anticipated.
Wolves have stood firm to this point, but Strand Larsen is keen on the move and our formal offer suggests Newcastle remain hopeful of bringing the striker to St James’ Park.
Both Mark Douglas and Luke Edwards have also been told that the 6ft 4″ forward is very much seen as a replacement for Callum Wilson, insisting any arrival would NOT open the door for Alexander Isak to leave.
In less encouraging news, Edwards also reports that there is ‘little confidence’ inside the club that a deal for Yoane Wissa can be done this window. Newcastle offered £40m for the Congolese forward last week, but Brentford want £60m and seem unwilling to buckle on those demands unless a replacement arrives.
For Wolves, the likely incoming of £17m Getafe forward Christantus Uche may see their stance soften slightly on Larsen, although some feel two forwards must arrive at Molineux to allow for his departure.
It may also be said that this is a chance for Wolves to more than double their return on the ex Celta Vigo man, having only made his loan deal permanent earlier in the summer for £23m. Given the state of PSR rules, it remains to be seen if Wolves chiefs are tempted to cash in for an immediate profit.
Manager Vitor Pereira, speaking to Alex Crook of TalkSPORT after a 1-0 loss to Bournemouth, said Wolves ‘cannot afford to lose’ their towering forward, who hit 14 goals last season on his debut year in the Premier League.
