Newcastle United are stepping up their interest in Jorgen Strand Larsen, as Alexander Isak’s Toon exile continues.
Eddie Howe is in desperate need of a striker, with the hope being that Yoane Wissa would arrive.
However, that deal is in doubt. Newcastle’s latest Wissa offer was rejected by Brentford, which is forcing them to look elsewhere.
Newcastle are moving for Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolves, with the Norwegian striker keen on a move to the North East.
It has been reported that Strand Larsen has agreed personal terms with Newcastle, but what would his potential arrival mean for Alexander Isak and his future?
Jorgen Strand Larsen reacts during a game between Wolves and Manchester City.
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images
Newcastle United see Jorgen Strand Larsen as a Callum Wilson replacement
While Isak and Liverpool fans would love it if Strand Larsen to Newcastle United opened up the door for the Swede to leave St James’ Park, that is not going to be the case.
According to the Athletic, Newcastle United see Strand Larsen as a replacement for Callum Wilson rather than Isak.
The 25-year-old is an alternative to Wissa, rather than someone who can come in and fill the boots of one of the best strikers in the world.
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That would make a deal for Strand Larsen much more palatable. While he was impressive for Wolves last season, bringing him in to replace Isak would be a massive risk.
Newcastle’s interest in Strand Larsen sums up the mess that the Wissa situation has become. He has been expected to move to St James’ Park for weeks, yet now an alternative is being lined up.
What Newcastle United signing Jorgen Strand Larsen would mean for Alexander Isak
Signing Strand Larsen would be good news for Isak, but it is still unlikely to lead to him leaving Newcastle United.
For him to leave, Newcastle need to sign a replacement. The problem is they are still trying to replace Callum Wilson, who left the club upon the expiration of his contract.
For Isak to go, the Magpies would need to sign two strikers. Getting one through the door is proving to be difficult enough as it is, and that is without trying to attract someone of Isak’s calibre.
Even if Strand Larsen arrives and there is time left in the window, getting an Isak replacement is unlikely. There are a lack of options out there, with Newcastle having reservations over Nicolas Jackson.
Ahead of their Champions League return, Newcastle are not in a position to take risks when it comes to strikers. That looks likely to be the key reason why Isak stays put.