Leeds United’s pursuit of Jorgen Strand Larsen is facing increasing pressure as Crystal Palace prepare to intensify their efforts to sign the Wolverhampton Wanderers striker before the January transfer window closes. Palace’s interest hinges largely on the potential departure of Jean-Philippe Mateta, but recent insights suggest Leeds are still very much in the conversation for the Norwegian forward.
Crystal Palace have already opened discussions with Wolves regarding Strand Larsen, who is believed to be valued at around £40 million. The South London club see the 25-year-old as a natural successor to Mateta, who has openly expressed his desire to leave Selhurst Park ahead of the February deadline. Nottingham Forest have emerged as the leading contenders for Mateta’s signature, lodging a £35 million bid and agreeing personal terms, though Palace remain firm on their asking price and will only proceed if they can secure a suitable replacement.
Should Mateta’s sale go through at the right price, Palace would have the financial flexibility to make a strong push for Strand Larsen, potentially outmuscling rivals. That scenario would put Leeds in a difficult position, despite the Yorkshire club having already made a concrete move. Leeds previously submitted a bid that rose to £33 million including add-ons, coming close to Wolves’ valuation, though no agreement has yet been reached and negotiations continue.
While Strand Larsen has found it challenging to consistently hit top form in the Premier League this season, his physicality, aerial threat, and proven scoring ability continue to make him an appealing option. Palace’s interest is being driven in part by sporting director Matt Hobbs, who knows the player well from his time at Wolves. The striker is understood to be open to a move, with his main priority being to remain in the Premier League, even amid interest from clubs in Italy and Germany.
Encouragingly for Leeds, respected journalist David Ornstein has indicated that the player and his representatives remain keen on the idea of a switch to Elland Road. Leeds’ pursuit is said to be ongoing, and the situation is shaping up as one of the key transfer stories to watch as the window nears its conclusion. Whether Leeds can move quickly enough to fend off Palace’s potential “all-in” bid may ultimately decide where Strand Larsen ends up next.
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