Newcastle’s striker search is now focused on Wolves’ Jorgen Strand Larsen, according to reports in the West Midlands.
The Magpies have been snubbed by a host of top targets this summer, leading them to attempt to prise Strand Larsen from Molineux.
The Norway international would not come cheap, however, with Newcastle being quoted around £60million, plus add-ons.
The 25-year-old scored 14 goals in 35 Premier League appearances last season after joining on loan from Celta Vigo. Wolves converted that to a permanent move for €30million in the summer but Strand Larsen is already being targeted by other clubs.
Newcastle are the latest to be credited with an interest as they seek to finally land a centre forward after a series of failed attempts.
Joao Pedro, Benjamin Sesko and Hugo Ekitike have all rejected a move to Tyneside this summer while a move for Yoane Wissa has stalled with Brentford continuing to play hard ball over the fee.
Newcastle offered £35m, plus add-ons, for Wissa earlier this week but saw that bid turned down.
No sign of Isak row being solved
It has all added up to a frustrating couple of months for Newcastle and Eddie Howe as they continue to deal with the ongoing Alexander Isak saga.
Isak is desperate to leave St James’ Park and on Tuesday night published a statement on social media in which he said he “can’t continue” at the club as he attempts to secure a transfer to Liverpool.
Newcastle responded by saying: “Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his team-mates.”
It leaves the Sweden international in limbo. He is currently training away from his team-mates and it has reportedly caused a rift in the dressing room with some players keen to have him back and others pushing for the club to maintain their hardline stance.
Either way, it seems inconceivable Isak will be part of the squad for their next Premier League game, ironically against Liverpool.
Wolves will be eager to keep Strand Larsen
Wolves are unlikely to sanction Strand Larsen’s departure unless they are given sufficient time to replace him.
Vitor Pereira’s squad is already short of attacking options with Wolves going down 4-0 at home to Manchester City on Saturday evening.
