Leeds could yet do the unthinkable as Jorgen Strand Larsen transfer takes ‘nightmare’ turn
Leeds United’s hopes of signing Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen may have been given an unexpected boost.
Leeds made Wolves star Strand Larsen their top target in the winter window but Daniel Farke’s side weren’t prepared to go over the £40million mark.
That opened the door for Crystal Palace to swoop in, as Leeds’ rivals agreed on a £48million deal for Strand Larsen.
Everything seemed to be progressing smoothly after the 25-year-old completed a medical at Selhurst Park but some complications have arisen.
That could bring Leeds back into play for Strand Larsen before the winter window slams shut at 7pm on Monday night.
Jean-Philippe Mateta move to AC Milan collapses
The Strand Larsen move to Palace was ostensibly contingent on Eagles striker Jean-Philippe Mateta joining Serie A giants.
However, according to Sky Sports, Milan have decided against proceeding with a move for the France international, whose contract runs until 2027.
It remains to be seen if Juventus will try and pursue the 28-year-old in the final hours of the winter transfer window, although they are said to be keen on Tottenham loanee Randal Kolo Muani.
Following this development, former Liverpool and Tottenham midfielder Jamie Redknapp said this is a “nightmare” situation all round.
He said on Sky Sports News: “Where do you go from here? A club will probably offer half the price, or maybe he goes back to Palace after saying he’s leaving three days ago. It’s the worst-case scenario for Palace. A nightmare all-round.”
This could prevent a huge domino effect amongst several clubs. If Mateta left Palace, Strand Larsen could join, meaning Wolves were free to move for Southampton’s Adam Armstrong.
An Armstrong departure would give Rangers the chance to recruit Saints forward Cameron Archer, while Leeds could be back in for Strand Larsen. Now all of this is hanging by a thread.
Do Leeds need to dip into the transfer market?
Leeds currently sit 16th in the Premier League table, six points ahead of West Ham, who sit in the last relegation spot.
Leeds have only signed Facundo Buonanotte from Brighton on loan during the winter window, with it appearing that Farke is content with his current options.
The thought around Elland Road is that they don’t want to fall afoul of the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, something a big transfer could push them closer towards.
And with centre-back Jaka Bijol and winger Daniel James nearing a return from injury, Leeds may stick with what they have rather than twist.
But stranger things have happened on transfer deadline day as clubs sniff around for a potential last-gasp gem.
Stay up to date this winter with our Leeds transfer tracker. Click to see every done deal at Elland Road, plus expert reaction from our team of writers.