Newcastle now exploring fast move to bring £65M striker who’s like Isak & Wood
The Alexander Isak saga at Newcastle United has reached a critical juncture, with the Swedish striker refusing to reintegrate into Eddie Howe’s squad following Liverpool’s persistent interest.
As the Magpies brace for his inevitable departure, their search for a replacement has intensified, with Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Jørgen Strand Larsen emerging as the primary target.
Newcastle’s hierarchy remains adamant about securing a replacement before sanctioning Isak’s exit, aware of the gaping void his departure would leave.
Initial pursuits of Benjamin Šeško and Nicolas Jackson faltered, shifting focus to Larsen—a 24-year-old Norwegian who enjoyed a stellar debut Premier League season, netting 14 goals and breaking Wolves’ scoring record for a first-year player.
Why Larsen Fits Newcastle’s Needs
Standing at 1.93 meters, Larsen offers a traditional No. 9 presence with clinical finishing instincts. His shot accuracy (61.1%) even surpassed Isak’s (43.2%), highlighting his efficiency in front of goal.
While Isak excels in deeper build-up play, Larsen thrives on penalty-box positioning, making him a more direct focal point for Howe’s attack.
| Stat Comparison (2024/25) | Alexander Isak | Jørgen Strand Larsen |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 23 | 14 |
| Assists | 6 | 4 |
| Shot Accuracy | 43.2% | 61.1% |
| Aerial Duels Won/90 | 1.2 | 3.8 |
| Progressive Passes/90 | 2.88 | 1.01 |
A Shift in Tactical Approach?
Isak’s versatility allowed him to drop deep and link play, but Larsen’s strengths suggest a stylistic shift. His dominance in the air and poacher’s instinct could complement Anthony Elanga’s pace and Yoane Wissa’s movement, should the Brentford forward finalize his move.
Additionally, Jacob Ramsey’s impending arrival from Aston Villa would add creativity, potentially reshaping Newcastle’s attacking dynamics.
Wolves, however, are reluctant sellers. Having triggered Larsen’s £23 million clause after his loan spell, they value him at £65 million—a figure that reflects his importance following Matheus Cunha’s departure.
Newcastle’s urgency may force them to meet this demand or explore alternatives like Jackson, though Larsen’s profile aligns more closely with Howe’s evolving system.
With the Premier League opener against Aston Villa looming, Newcastle must act swiftly. Losing Isak without a ready replacement risks derailing their campaign before it begins.
Larsen represents a calculated gamble—a striker whose skill set differs from Isak’s but could offer a more reliable presence in the box.
The coming days will reveal whether Newcastle’s pursuit succeeds or if they must pivot once again. Either way, the resolution of this saga will define their season and signal the club’s ambition in the post-Isak era.