Market frustrations have pushed Newcastle to explore less conventional options. Brentford’s Yoane Wissa has been strongly linked in recent weeks, while there’s also speculation about a possible move for Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson. However, one player might surpass the rest – and he plays for Wolves.

Newcastle’s interest in Strand Larsen makes perfect sense

Jorgen Strand Larsen has drawn attention from many clubs following an impressive debut Premier League season, making him an intriguing alternative for Newcastle.

The Norway international scored 14 goals in 35 top-flight appearances last season, prompting Wolves to trigger their option to buy for roughly £23 million, widely seen as a bargain.

The Daily Mail reports that Strand Larsen could be a ‘dark horse’ target for Newcastle if they miss out on other options. Although not as quick as Isak, Strand Larsen is still fast when he builds momentum and demonstrated clinical finishing when chances came his way.

Strand Larsen ranked as the Premier League’s tenth highest scorer last season and was in the top 20 percent of strikers for non-penalty expected goals, with 10.27. Only 14 percent of forwards matched his tally of 34 shots on target and 67 aerial duels won, proving to be a constant threat for defenders.

One less obvious strength in Strand Larsen’s game is his movement. While Matheus Cunha earned much praise for Wolves’ success, Strand Larsen was only one goal behind him, often creating chances through late box runs and clever positioning to evade centre-backs.

Wolves must hold on to Strand Larsen at all costs

Though Strand Larsen would be a strong signing for Newcastle, Wolves cannot afford to lose him this summer. Even if Newcastle were to offer a large fee, which would mean immediate profit, it would not be worth risking Wolves’ Premier League survival.

Football is a team sport and no single player keeps a club afloat alone, but Strand Larsen could be vital to Wolves this season. The Norwegian has lost the support of Cunha, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Nelson Semedo, yet his smart runs frequently create goal-scoring opportunities.

Many expect newly-promoted Leeds United, Burnley, and Sunderland to struggle and possibly face relegation, but nothing is guaranteed, and Wolves could find themselves in a fight.

Strand Larsen’s goals will be crucial, especially if new forwards Fer Lopez and Jhon Arias fail to impress. While every player has a price, Wolves should ignore any Newcastle bids.