Wolves Reject Newcastle’s £55M Bid for Striker Jørgen Strand Larsen

Wolverhampton Wanderers have turned down a significant bid of £55 million ($73.90 million) from Newcastle United for striker Jørgen Strand Larsen. This rejection has ignited one of the most prominent transfer stories in the Premier League as the transfer window approaches its closure on 1 September 2023. Despite Newcastle’s persistent efforts to bolster their attacking lineup, Wolves have firmly stated their intention to retain the Norwegian forward.

Earlier this week, Newcastle made an initial offer of £50 million ($67.18 million), which Wolves quickly dismissed. Following this, the Magpies returned with an enhanced bid, but once again, Wolves refused to sanction the move. According to BBC Sport, the club’s decision is influenced by their short timeframe to find a replacement and the critical role Strand Larsen plays in their aspirations for Premier League survival.

Wolves’ manager, Vítor Pereira, emphasized the importance of keeping the 25-year-old forward, who has quickly established himself as a key player in the squad. He stated, “He is a player with character. He is not looking to leave, and we are not looking to sell,” while also acknowledging the unpredictable nature of football by adding, “every player has a price.” This sentiment underscores the club’s determination to retain Strand Larsen, especially with his contract binding him to Molineux until 2029, following a permanent transfer from Celta Vigo in July 2025.

Newcastle’s urgency in pursuing Strand Larsen is partly driven by the uncertainty surrounding their star forward, Alexander Isak, who has expressed interest in a potential move to Liverpool and has not participated in recent matches. With the clock ticking down on the transfer window, Newcastle is keen to secure a proven striker, yet Wolves remain resolute in their decision not to part with their talisman.

Strand Larsen’s recent performance further solidified his value, as he scored twice in Wolves’ dramatic 3–2 victory over West Ham in the Carabao Cup, coming off the bench to overturn a 2–1 deficit. Following the match, he remarked on the exhilarating atmosphere, saying, “When the crowd is going here, it’s one of the best feelings ever. I should have had a hat-trick, but two goals in 15 minutes is not too bad.”

Born in Halden, Norway, in February 2000, Strand Larsen stands at 1.93 metres and is renowned for his aerial prowess and ability to link play effectively. His career began with Sarpsborg 08 before moving to Groningen in the Netherlands and then Celta Vigo in Spain. After joining Wolves on loan in July 2024, he netted an impressive 14 Premier League goals during the 2024/25 season, prompting the club to secure his permanent transfer the following year.

On the international stage, Strand Larsen has earned 21 caps for Norway since his debut in 2020, scoring three goals. As the Premier League transfer deadline looms, Newcastle’s failed bid places Strand Larsen at the forefront of one of the summer’s most talked-about transfer scenarios. Wolves’ refusal to accept £55 million indicates their strong commitment to building a competitive squad as they navigate the new season. With the transfer window closing soon, it remains to be seen if Newcastle will make another attempt or shift their focus elsewhere.