Wolves have formally rejected an opening bid from Leeds United for Jorgen Strand Larsen, sending a clear message to suitors that they will not be bullied into a cut-price sale despite their relegation fears. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the proposal was tabled earlier this week but was immediately knocked back by the Molineux hierarchy.
The £40m Standoff
The rejection underlines Wolves' stance that Strand Larsen remains a key asset, even as they face the prospect of dropping into the Championship. The club have set a firm valuation of £40m for the Norwegian international—a figure that effectively demands Leeds break their transfer record to get the deal done. Sources indicate that Wolves are "content" to keep the striker for the remainder of the season, believing his goals offer their best route to survival, or at worst, that his value will hold in the summer.
For Daniel Farke and the 49ers Enterprises, this is a significant reality check. While Leeds are desperate to add a physical focal point to their attack, a £40m outlay in January is fraught with PSR risk. The swift rejection suggests Leeds' initial offer was significantly below the asking price, likely structured with heavy add-ons that did not appeal to a Wolves side needing immediate liquidity or guaranteed quality.
Palace Waiting in the Wings
The situation is further complicated by interest from Crystal Palace. The Eagles are in the market for a striker to replace the unsettled Jean-Philippe Mateta and view Strand Larsen as a viable Premier League-proven alternative. However, like Leeds, they are hesitant to meet the £40m asking price without first securing a major sale of their own.
With Wolves holding all the cards—contract stability and a willingness to retain the player—the onus is now on the buying clubs. Unless Leeds or Palace return with a bid that guarantees the full £40m fee, the Jorgen Strand Larsen next club odds suggest he is increasingly likely to remain in the Midlands until at least the summer.