Newcastle expected to return with ‘bigger bid’ – NT manager backs Magpies fit

The summer transfer window is racing toward its conclusion, and for Newcastle United, the pursuit of a new striker has become the defining story of their deadline week.

The club has made it clear that their number one target is Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Jørgen Strand Larsen, and they are showing no signs of giving up, despite already seeing two substantial bids turned down.

Newcastle’s initial offers, reported to be worth £50 million and then £55 million, were both rejected by Wolves, who are under no financial pressure to sell one of their key players.

However, the Magpies are expected to return with a third, improved bid as they look to finally secure the Norwegian international. While the exact figure hasn’t been confirmed, it is believed that an offer in the region of £60 million could be enough to persuade Wolves to negotiate, even if reluctantly.

What makes this potential transfer so compelling is the player’s own stance. According to reports from Norway, Strand Larsen is personally very keen on the move and believes it will eventually happen.

His agent, Tore Pedersen, is currently in England working behind the scenes to facilitate the transfer, a clear sign that the player sees his future at St. James’ Park.

This kind of willingness from the player himself often plays a crucial role in pushing deals over the line, especially in the final days of the window.

From Wolverhampton’s perspective, this is a difficult situation. The club values Strand Larsen highly he has quickly become an integral part of manager Vítor Pereira’s system since making his loan move from Celta Vigo permanent this summer.

Losing him now would be a significant blow, particularly with so little time left to find a suitable replacement. This is why they are holding out for a fee that truly reflects his importance, one that would give them the resources to react quickly in the market if needed.

Adding an interesting layer to the story is the opinion of Norway’s national team manager, Ståle Solbakken. When asked about the potential move, he suggested that Strand Larsen’s style of play could be an excellent fit for Eddie Howe’s system at Newcastle.

He highlighted how Newcastle often play with a single central striker and rely on quick, crossing wingers to create chances—a setup that would suit a physical, aerial presence like Strand Larsen.

At the same time, Solbakken was careful to note that the player is also thriving in his current environment at Wolves, where the style of play also benefits his strengths.

For Newcastle, the need for a new number nine is obvious. With Alexander Isak’s future still uncertain and the departure of Callum Wilson, the squad is lacking experienced options up front.

Strand Larsen represents a player who has already adapted to the Premier League, having scored 14 goals in his debut season, and who is entering the prime years of his career.

He fits the profile of what Eddie Howe looks for in a striker: hardworking, strong in the air, and capable of linking play.

As the clock ticks down, the pressure is building on both clubs. Newcastle must decide whether to meet Wolves’ valuation, and Wolves must decide whether to cash in on a valuable asset at the last minute.

One thing is certain: this transfer saga is far from over, and the next bid could be the one that changes everything.