‘Newcastle want Wolves’ Larsen amid Alexander Isak chaos’
Wolves’ Jorgen Strand Larsen has emerged on Newcastle United’s shopping list as Alexander Isak’s situation becomes more confusing than ever.
The Magpies first cited a thigh injury as the reason for the Sweden international’s absence from their pre-season tour of Singapore, only now it has emerged that the player wants to explore his options.
Rumours have likely clouded the sensational striker’s mind for several weeks, with it now taking full effect after Football Insider revealed that Liverpool had launched a £130million bid for Isak’s signature.
With a move already failed for Joao Pedro, who joined Chelsea on a £60m deal [BBC Sport], Strand Larsen could now be viewed as an alternative target following a fine first campaign in England.
Wolves’ permanent deal worth £23m was triggered earlier this month after the 25-year-old met certain clauses in his loan contract [BBC Sport], having notched 14 goals and five assists across all competitions.
Unsurprisingly, his talent and ability in the final third has alerted clubs in the Premier League.
Jorgen Strand Larsen could leave Wolves already
According to the Express & Star (25 July), the Magpies could make a move for one or two forwards should Isak leave this summer, with the Premier League side admirers of the Norwegian striker.
It is understood that Howe has not yet made contact with Wolves over the 25-year-old’s ability, though Vitor Pereira’s side have no interest in allowing him to leave just weeks after signing him permanently.
Brentford’s Yoane Wissa and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko are also on the list, but possible signings appear to rely on current striker Isak, who is keen to explore his options before the 2025/26 season kicks off.
Eddie Howe desperate for striker resolution at Newcastle United
Football Insider verdict
The Magpies have been lucky enough to have Isak up front for the last three seasons, avoiding any upset over an exit despite the player being on a much lower wage than many expected.
New contract talks were also shelved at St James’ Park over a year ago, which has thrown more uncertainty over the situation, and that could have disastrous effects this summer.
Despite Champions League qualification last season, and Football Insider understanding that Newcastle were increasingly confident of keeping Isak, the squad could go into next season without a striker.
Liverpool have also won the race for Hugo Ekitike, and Chelsea could foil the club’s plans to sign Sesko, which leaves Howe’s side in a difficult situation ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Anthony Elanga is the only major arrival so far, joining from Nottingham Forest on a £55m deal [BBC Sport], and he is unlikely to carry to attacking weight on his shoulders next season.
Strand Larsen would add a more distinguished figure through the middle, but having only just signed permanently for Wolves, his price tag is likely to rise exponentially this summer.