Crystal Palace Nears Agreement for Strand Larsen Amidst Leeds’ Disappointment

omidbasir- Crystal Palace is close to finalizing an agreement for their primary target in the winter transfer window, as reported by The Athletic. The south London club is eager to bolster their attacking lineup before the deadline and appears to have identified 25-year-old Norwegian international Strand Larsen as the ideal candidate.

Negotiations are said to be at an advanced stage concerning both the transfer fee and personal terms. However, an official bid has yet to be submitted to the Molineux management. The financial package being discussed includes an initial fee of £45 million, along with an additional £5 million in potential add-ons.

Wolves’ negotiations are being managed by agent Jorge Mendes, especially critical given the club’s precarious position at the bottom of the Premier League standings. While the deal is not yet finalized, the swift progress in discussions indicates that Crystal Palace is confident about acquiring the tall center-forward to enhance their offensive strategy for the remainder of the season.

This development is a setback for Leeds United, who have actively pursued Strand Larsen throughout the transfer window. Leeds reportedly had multiple bids, peaking at £40 million, rejected by Wolves. The player himself was keen on the switch, influenced by his agent, a lifelong supporter of Leeds, who aimed to facilitate a move to Yorkshire.

Nonetheless, Leeds has set a firm limit on their valuation and does not intend to increase their bid beyond the £40 million threshold, effectively sidelining themselves as Palace has presented a more appealing financial offer.

This hesitation from Leeds has allowed Crystal Palace to gain a competitive edge. With the financial capacity to meet Wolves’ demands, the Eagles have seemingly secured a transfer that Leeds fans hoped would revitalize their season, clearing the way for Oliver Glasner’s side to finalize the deal.

Strand Larsen’s value has significantly increased since his arrival in English football. He made a remarkable debut in the Premier League during the 2024-25 season, scoring 14 goals and providing five assists over 38 appearances. Despite Wolves struggling this season, currently sitting at the bottom of the league, the Norwegian has still managed to contribute six goals and two assists across all competitions.

His contract at Molineux extends until June 2030, with an option for an additional year, placing Wolves in a strong negotiating position. The striker had also attracted interest from Newcastle last summer, along with various clubs in Italy, Spain, and the Saudi Pro League. However, the pressing need for funds and the player’s desire for a new challenge seems to have convinced Wolves to consider a sale.

Strand Larsen’s imminent arrival at Selhurst Park is expected to have immediate consequences for the current Palace squad, particularly opening the door for Jean-Philippe Mateta’s departure. The French international, whose contract runs until June 2027, is now available for transfer as the club seeks to balance their finances and refresh their attacking options.

Palace is reportedly looking for around £40 million for Mateta, a valuation that has caught the attention of several clubs. Nottingham Forest has already made an offer of £35 million for the striker, who was pivotal for Palace last season.

Interest in Mateta is not confined to the Premier League, as European giants AC Milan and Juventus are also monitoring the situation, with Juventus having previously explored the possibility of signing the player earlier in the window. As Strand Larsen’s arrival becomes imminent, the final days of the transfer window may witness a flurry of activity surrounding Mateta’s potential transfer, as Palace aims to execute a “one in, one out” strategy.