Craig Hope: Newcastle trying to sign £65m “nuisance”, he’s more prolific than Woltemade
The final day of the transfer window is always a whirlwind of activity, and for Newcastle United, this deadline day promises to be one of the most consequential in recent memory.
While fans might be relieved to see the end of a summer filled with constant rumors and drama, the club’s work is far from over.
The expected departure of Alexander Isak to Liverpool in a British record deal has left a massive void, and while the club-record signing of Nick Woltemade is a fantastic start, the need for a second proven striker is absolutely critical, especially after the departure of Callum Wilson.
For much of the summer, the primary target to fill that role has been Brentford’s Yoane Wissa. The player himself has been reportedly desperate to make the move to Tyneside, but despite Newcastle submitting two bids, a deal looks increasingly unlikely.
Brentford’s manager has publicly stated he expects Wissa to stay, forcing Newcastle to quickly shift their focus to other options. This is where the story gets interesting.
According to reports, the Magpies are now actively “trying” to secure a deal for Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Jørgen Strand Larsen.
The 25-year-old Norwegian international is a different profile of player to Wissa, but he might just be the perfect fit. Valued at around £65 million, he wouldn’t come cheap, but Newcastle’s efforts to negotiate a deal are ongoing.
Strand Larsen spent last season on loan at Wolves before making the move permanent this summer, and he took to the Premier League impressively, netting 14 goals for a team that was often battling in the bottom half of the table.
What makes Strand Larsen such an appealing option is his specific skill set. He is a classic modern target man, standing at an intimidating 6 foot 4 inches.
He has been described as a complete “nuisance” in the penalty area by none other than Newcastle legend Alan Shearer, which is just about the highest praise a striker can get.
His game is built on physicality, intelligent movement, and a strong ability to link up with other attackers, making him an ideal focal point for a team with top-six ambitions.
While the exciting Nick Woltemade may have a higher long-term ceiling, he is still somewhat of an unfinished product, adapting to a new league and a new country.
Strand Larsen, by contrast, offers something Newcastle desperately needs right now: proven Premier League polish.
He has already demonstrated he can score goals consistently in England, and he did so for a team that created fewer chances than Newcastle typically will.
A direct comparison of their league performances from last season shows the strengths each player would bring to St. James’ Park. Strand Larsen’s efficiency in front of goal is particularly notable.
| Stat (per game) | Jørgen Strand Larsen | Nick Woltemade |
|---|---|---|
| Matches (starts) | 35 (30) | 28 (17) |
| Goals | 14 | 12 |
| Assists | 4 | 2 |
| Shots on Target | 1.0 | 0.9 |
| Accurate Passes | 8.4 (65% accuracy) | 12.3 (72%) |
| Key Passes | 0.6 | 1.3 |
| Successful Dribbles | 0.2 | 1.1 |
| Duels Won | 3.0 | 4.4 |
The data reveals a fascinating story. While Woltemade is more involved in the build-up play, attempting more passes and dribbles, Strand Larsen proves to be the more clinical finisher.
He scored more league goals despite taking fewer shots per game on average, suggesting a remarkable level of efficiency and composure in front of goal. This kind of reliable finishing is exactly what Newcastle will crave if Isak completes his move away.
Ultimately, signing Jørgen Strand Larsen wouldn’t be about choosing him over Nick Woltemade; it would be about creating a fantastic partnership and rivalry.
Strand Larsen could provide the immediate, proven goal threat to help the team win games now, while Woltemade develops at his own pace.
Together, they would offer manager Eddie Howe two completely different but highly effective tactical options at the number nine position. For a club facing the daunting task of replacing a superstar, securing a player of Strand Larsen’s caliber would be a masterstroke, turning a day of potential anxiety into one of genuine excitement for the future.