Crystal Palace’s £50 Million Bid for Strand Larsen in Jeopardy

Negotiations Stall for the Norway Forward

Crystal Palace’s intention to finalize a £50 million acquisition of striker Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolverhampton Wanderers has become uncertain after the club signaled a potential withdrawal from negotiations.

Both Premier League teams had reached an agreement in principle for the transfer of the 25-year-old forward to Selhurst Park. However, this arrangement was contingent upon Palace making a formal written offer, which Wolverhampton would accept.

Communication Breakdown

Despite expectations for the formal offer to be submitted by Thursday, it has not materialized. Reports suggest that Palace has informed Wolves of their decision to reconsider the deal, although it’s unclear whether this could be a bargaining strategy aimed at negotiating a lower transfer fee.

If the move for Strand Larsen does not go ahead, it could complicate Jean-Philippe Mateta’s possible transfer from Palace prior to the upcoming transfer deadline on Monday.

Mateta’s Departure Potential

Mateta, a 28-year-old forward from France, has expressed his desire to leave the club this January. Palace appears more willing to let him go, especially with Nottingham Forest having had an initial £35 million proposal turned down, but they are prepared to increase their pursuit of the striker soon. Additionally, clubs like Juventus and AC Milan have also expressed interest.

While Mateta desires an opportunity to play in the Champions League, he is open to a transfer to Forest.

Replacement Strategies

Currently, Palace is keen on finding a suitable replacement before sanctioning Mateta’s transfer. They are in talks to acquire Evann Guessand on loan from Aston Villa, but it remains uncertain whether they will seek an established center-forward before allowing Mateta to leave.

In the meantime, Nottingham Forest has submitted a £20 million bid for Brighton’s midfielder Yasin Ayari, although this offer is also expected to be declined.

What’s Next?

The situation surrounding Strand Larsen and Mateta remains fluid, and developments are likely in the coming days as the transfer window approaches its deadline. Fans and clubs alike will be eagerly watching to see how affairs unfold in the next few critical hours.