Palace Step Back From Strand Larsen Deal
Crystal Palace’s proposed £50 million move for Wolves striker Jørgen Strand Larsen is now in serious doubt after the club signaled it may walk away from the deal.
Both Premier League sides had reached a verbal agreement for the 25-year-old Norway international to move to Selhurst Park. Wolves expected Palace to follow up with a formal written offer, which they were ready to accept.
However, the offer never arrived on Thursday as planned. Sources close to the negotiations say Wolves have now been told that Palace no longer intend to proceed with the transfer.
It remains unclear whether Palace are using this move as a negotiation tactic to reduce the fee or if the deal has genuinely collapsed.
Mateta Exit Linked to Larsen Uncertainty
The uncertainty surrounding Strand Larsen directly affects Jean-Philippe Mateta’s future at Crystal Palace.
The 28-year-old French striker has informed the club that he wants to leave during the January window. Palace are increasingly open to selling him, but only if a replacement arrives first.
If the Larsen deal fails, Palace may delay or block Mateta’s exit before Monday’s transfer deadline.
Nottingham Forest Lead Mateta Chase
Nottingham Forest have already had a £35 million bid rejected for Mateta. Despite that setback, Forest plan to step up talks in the coming days.
Juventus and AC Milan have also shown strong interest, making Mateta one of the most sought-after strikers late in the window.
Although Mateta prefers Champions League football, he is reportedly open to joining Forest at the City Ground.
Palace Line Up Alternative Options
Crystal Palace want cover in attack before approving Mateta’s departure. The club is close to signing Evann Guessand on loan from Aston Villa.
Guessand offers versatility across the frontline, but Palace have not decided whether they need a traditional centre-forward in addition to him.
That decision could determine whether Mateta leaves before the deadline.
Forest Also Target Brighton Midfielder
Away from the striker market, Nottingham Forest have submitted a £20 million bid for Brighton midfielder Yasin Ayari.
Brighton are expected to reject the offer, but Forest remain keen to strengthen their midfield before the window closes.
