Wolverhampton Wanderers have demonstrated their resolve in the January transfer window by rejecting an opening bid from Premier League rivals Leeds United for their £40 million-rated striker, Jorgen Strand Larsen. The West Midlands club are holding firm on their valuation of the Norwegian forward amidst ongoing negotiations and interest from other top-flight sides.
Wolves Stand Firm on £40 Million Valuation
According to reports from Mail Sport, Wolves have turned down Leeds United's initial offer for Strand Larsen, which was believed to be worth £33 million upfront with an additional £6 million in potential add-ons. This proposal fell short of Wanderers' £40 million asking price, prompting the club to maintain their stance in discussions.
The 25-year-old striker joined Wolves from Celta Vigo for £23 million, and the club previously rejected bids exceeding £50 million from Newcastle United during the summer transfer window. Despite Strand Larsen's modest return of just one Premier League goal this season, Wolves are prepared to sell only if their valuation is met, reflecting their strategic approach to player sales.
Manager Rob Edwards Addresses Transfer Situation
Speaking ahead of Wolves' upcoming fixture, manager Rob Edwards confirmed that a bid had been received for Strand Larsen but emphasised that it did not meet the club's valuation. "Yeah. [The bid] came in earlier this week. He's been great, trained really well and will be part of the squad tomorrow," Edwards stated.
"We're under no pressure to sell. We want to try and be as strong as we can throughout this period. Unless we feel it's the right thing, no one will go. No-one's been knocking on my door [to leave], no-one, they've all shown real desire and attitude to be here," he added, highlighting the squad's commitment despite their challenging league position.
Transfer Talks Continue Amid Relegation Battle
Wolves, currently bottom of the Premier League and 14 points from safety, have seen multiple first-team players linked with exits this month. Marshall Munetsi has already departed on loan to Paris FC, while Emmanuel Agbadou has been connected with a move to Besiktas.
Strand Larsen, who has scored six goals in all competitions this season including an FA Cup hat-trick against Shrewsbury Town, has not started a league match since December. Talks between Leeds and Wolves are reportedly continuing, with Nottingham Forest also showing interest in the striker.
Future Implications for Wolves' Squad
Wolves appear to be preparing for a potential departure of Strand Larsen, with another bid expected later this month that could meet their valuation. Whether any funds generated from a sale would be reinvested in the squad during this transfer window remains uncertain, as the club has had a quiet January thus far.
The Old Gold's firm stance on their £40 million valuation demonstrates their determination to secure appropriate value for their assets, even amidst a difficult relegation battle. As negotiations progress, the coming days will reveal whether Leeds United or other suitors will meet Wolves' demands for their Norwegian striking talent.
