Crystal Palace have communicated their intention to abandon a £50m deal for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen despite clubs agreeing terms in principle. The collapse could significantly impact Jean-Philippe Mateta’s anticipated exit from Selhurst Park before Monday’s transfer deadline. According to Bbc.com.
Palace’s £50m Strand Larsen Deal Collapses as Mateta Exit Hangs in Balance
The two Premier League clubs had reached agreement in principle for 25-year-old Strand Larsen to move to Selhurst Park, subject to Palace submitting a formal written offer. However, that crucial offer expected on Thursday never materialised, with sources indicating Wolves have been informed Palace no longer wish to proceed.
The dramatic withdrawal raises questions over whether this represents a genuine pullout or a negotiating tactic designed to secure a reduced fee. Strand Larsen scored 14 Premier League goals for Wolves last season, establishing himself as a key target for Palace’s attacking reinforcement plans.
The collapsed deal creates significant complications for Jean-Philippe Mateta’s departure plans, with the 28-year-old France forward having told Palace he wants to leave this month. Nottingham Forest have already seen a £35m offer rejected and are set to accelerate their pursuit in the coming days.
Juventus and AC Milan are among other clubs showing concrete interest in Mateta, who is understood to prefer Champions League football but remains open to a move to the City Ground. Palace want a replacement secured before sanctioning Mateta’s exit and are set to sign versatile attacker Evann Guessand on loan from Aston Villa.
The uncertainty over whether Palace require a recognised centre-forward replacement before allowing Mateta’s departure adds further complexity to their transfer strategy. Meanwhile, Forest have submitted a £20m bid for Brighton midfielder Yasin Ayari, though the offer is expected to be rejected.
