Wolves block Leeds move for Strand Larsen as Premier League interest grows

Wolverhampton Wanderers have turned down an opening approach from Leeds United for striker Jørgen Strand Larsen, with the Midlands club holding out for a fee in the region of £40m.

The exact value of Leeds’ bid has not been disclosed, but Wolves are understood to be relaxed about the player’s future and under no immediate pressure to sell. That stance comes despite growing Premier League interest and Strand Larsen’s openness to remaining in England should he move on this month.

Leeds are not alone in tracking the Norway international. Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace have both made enquiries, while Wolves continue to assess their own options in a difficult campaign.

Strand Larsen, who was heavily linked with a move to Newcastle United during the summer, has scored three goals in 13 appearances this season. Wolves’ struggles have inevitably impacted his output, but the club still view him as a long-term asset rather than a cut-price sale.

Leeds boss Daniel Farke is keen to add more firepower, yet the club remain mindful of Profit and Sustainability Rules. Any incoming deal may depend on player departures.

Jack Harrison has already left Elland Road on loan to Fiorentina, with that move potentially becoming permanent in the summer for around £6m. However, further sales may be required if Leeds are to return with an improved offer for Strand Larsen.

One obvious candidate is Joel Piroe, who has not started a Premier League match since August. The striker is attracting interest from both the Championship and overseas, yet Leeds insist they are not actively pushing him out.

As things stand, Piroe is said to want to stay and prove himself at Premier League level.

Leeds were recently surprised by an approach from Celtic, who explored the possibility of a loan deal for Piroe. That enquiry was swiftly shut down.

Sources close to Leeds suggested there was little appetite to sanction a move that would neither significantly help their PSR position nor align with internal relationships, given chairman Paraag Marathe’s links to Rangers.

Celtic remain in the market for attacking reinforcements and continue to monitor alternatives, including David Datro Fofana.

While Wolves are assessing how to strengthen in January, they are also planning with the long term in mind, including the possibility of a relegation battle. That context explains their reluctance to sell Strand Larsen cheaply, even amid external interest.

This is not just a football decision. Financial rules, squad balance and future planning all intersect. Strand Larsen fits Leeds’ profile, but Wolves’ valuation and Leeds’ PSR constraints mean this transfer may only move forward if the market shifts elsewhere first.

Leeds face a decision on whether to return with an improved bid or explore alternative striker targets. Wolves, meanwhile, hold the leverage and are unlikely to soften their stance unless circumstances change significantly before deadline day.

Should Leeds push harder for Strand Larsen or look for a more attainable striker option?