Newcastle United are reportedly considering a surprise January move for Wolves forward Strand Larsen as they seek to resolve their striker crisis. The 25-year-old, who joined Wolves permanently from Celta Vigo for £23m last month after a successful loan spell, has scored 14 Premier League goals this season.
The Magpies are under pressure to sign a replacement for Alexander Isak, who is pushing for a move to Liverpool. Isak has refused to play for Newcastle after the club rejected a £110m bid from Liverpool, and manager Eddie Howe has admitted the club “can’t go through the season with no recognised striker”.
Wolves have rejected two offers of £50m and £55m for Larsen, but manager Vítor Pereira’s comment that “every player has his price” suggests a breakthrough could be possible. Larsen is described as a tall, strong forward with a proven Premier League record, making him an ideal fit for Howe’s direct attacking setup.
Newcastle have also pursued Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, but two bids of £25m and £40m have been rejected, with Brentford valuing him at £60m. Wissa has reacted by refusing to train and removing Brentford from his social media accounts, mirroring Isak’s behaviour.
Meanwhile, Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is keen to leave after being dropped for the first two league matches. The 20-year-old academy graduate wants Champions League football, and his future at Old Trafford looks uncertain under Ruben Amorim’s system.
West Ham’s poor start to the season could worsen with Lucas Paquetá linked to Tottenham, while other clubs scramble for last-minute deals before the transfer window closes on Monday at 7pm.
