Leeds United last-gasp transfer is ‘one to watch’, box-office deal edges closer
Leeds United’s pursuit of Jorgen Strand Larsen is “one to watch” into the final moments of the January window, sources have told Football Insider.
The Whites and Crystal Palace are both pursuing a move for the Wolves striker, with Nottingham Forest now understood to be unlikely to take any last-minute action on their previous interest.
Leeds saw a bid for Strand Larsen rejected by Wolves last week, but sources now say that they could yet reach a deal if they are able to raise the funds for a second, improved offer.
The Premier League’s bottom side remain firm in their £40million valuation of the 25-year-old, although the saga surrounding his future is expected to run right up until the 2 February deadline before it is settled.
Jean-Philippe Mateta central to Crystal Palace’s Jorgen Strand Larsen chances
Football Insider revealed on Tuesday that a Crystal Palace exit for Jean-Philippe Mateta could trigger a late advancement towards Strand Larsen from the South Londoners.
Mateta has been subject to a bid from Nottingham Forest, and although it remains short of the Eagles’ £40m asking price, there are plenty of potential suitors for the Frenchman.
Palace would be keen to immediately replace the 28-year-old if he were to leave before the 2 February deadline, and that could see them launch a move for Strand Larsen after seeing Leeds’ initial failed attempt.
The Norwegian is tied down to a long-term contract at Molineux at the moment, but with the Black Country outfit’s relegation from the Premier League looking increasingly likely, they may be tempted to cash in imminently.
However, that will not come at the detriment of them getting the money that they want.
Leeds have Joel Piroe exit plan
Football Insider revealed last weekend that Leeds are unlikely to sanction an exit for Joel Piroe amid recent links over a move to both Celtic and Rangers.
Daniel Farke is keen to avoid weakening his squad at all for the second half of the season, and as a result, Piroe is likely to be kept at Elland Road, despite the fact that he hasn’t been a regular since their promotion to the Premier League.
However, that could change if further attacking reinforcements are sought by the Whites before the end of the window.
A move for Strand Larsen could yet force Piroe’s future under the microscope once again, and there would be no shortage of potential suitors for the Dutchman if he became available.