Crystal Palace's ambitious £50m move for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen is hanging by a thread. The Eagles have reportedly communicated their intention to back out from the deal, leaving fans and sports betting enthusiasts on edge.
The two Premier League clubs had initially agreed on a deal in principle for 25-year-old Strand Larsen to make his way to Selhurst Park. This agreement was contingent upon Palace submitting a formal written offer for the Norway forward, which Wolves were prepared to accept.
However, the expected offer that was due last Thursday has not been received. Sources indicate that Wolves have been informed of Palace's decision not to proceed with the deal.
Negotiation tactics or genuine withdrawal?
It remains unclear whether this development is merely a negotiation tactic aimed at agreeing on a lower fee or if it signifies an actual withdrawal from the proposed transfer. Sports fans and betting enthusiasts alike are keenly watching these developments as they could significantly impact future games and odds.
If the Strand Larsen move falls through, it could potentially affect Jean-Philippe Mateta's anticipated exit from Selhurst Park before Monday's transfer deadline. The 28-year-old France forward has expressed his desire to leave this month, with Crystal Palace increasingly open to sanctioning his departure.
Nottingham Forest had previously seen their £35m offer rejected by Crystal Palace but are set to intensify their efforts in securing Mateta’s signature over the coming days. Juventus and AC Milan have also shown concrete interest in acquiring him. Mateta has expressed his desire for Champions League football but is open-minded about moving to City Ground if necessary.
Palace intends on securing a replacement before sanctioning Mateta's exit - and are set to sign versatile attacker Evann Guessand on loan from Aston Villa. However, it remains unclear whether the Eagles want a new recognised centre-forward through the door before allowing Mateta to leave.
