With the transfer window closing in just a matter of days, Newcastle United’s efforts to secure a new centre-forward are still ongoing.

Alexander Isak remains determined to leave St James’ Park for Liverpool, but negotiations around that possible switch have seen little progress.

In the meantime, Newcastle continue to push for reinforcements up front, with Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen firmly on their shortlist.

Wolves are reluctant to part ways with Strand Larsen, yet the club is preparing alternatives before deadline day arrives.

It’s understood that Wolves have identified Genk’s Tolu Arokodare as a candidate to come in should Strand Larsen force through a move to Tyneside.

The Magpies have already seen two offers rejected for Strand Larsen and will need to raise their bid to finally secure the Norwegian attacker.

Wolves are displeased with the player’s stance, having only just paid £25 million to make his transfer from Celta Vigo permanent earlier in the summer, but they also recognise his desire to join a Champions League side.

Those close to Newcastle anticipate a third approach worth more than £60 million to arrive very soon.

In preparation, Wolves are exploring replacement options.

Talks have already taken place with Getafe over Christantus Uche, but interest has now also moved towards Arokodare.

The Nigerian striker was crowned winner of the Ebony Shoe last term, an award given to the top African player in Belgium.

Manchester United monitored him in recent months, with Serie A outfits AC Milan and Napoli also showing interest.

Sources claim the 24-year-old is eager to secure a Premier League switch, with a £25 million fee thought to be enough to tempt Genk into selling.

“Strand Larsen wants the Newcastle move, he’s made that very clear – he sees it as a huge chance and is now pushing hard to make it happen,” explained Graeme Bailey, TBR Football’s chief correspondent.

“This potential transfer could be the domino that eventually sparks movement with Alexander Isak’s situation.

“As for Wolves, they admire Arokodare. He believed he had a shot at Manchester United, but now he’s ready to test himself in England,” Bailey continued.

Arokodare began his career in Nigeria before switching to Latvian club Valmiera back in 2019.

He failed to find the net in 11 outings at Koln, but managed 21 strikes from 63 games during his stay with Amiens.

Genk secured his signature in 2023, and he delivered 23 goals in all competitions during the most recent campaign.

On the international front, the 24-year-old has earned three senior caps for Nigeria, finding the net once for his country.