Wolverhampton Wanderers Coach Discusses Jørgen Strand-Larsen’s Importance
In recent remarks, Vítor Pereira, the head coach of Wolverhampton Wanderers, emphasized the significant role that striker Jørgen Strand-Larsen plays for the team. Despite acknowledging the player’s value, Pereira also noted the reality of transfer negotiations, stating,
“every player has his price.”
This comment comes amidst speculation surrounding Newcastle United‘s reported interest in Strand-Larsen, who recently made headlines by scoring two late goals to propel Wolves into the third round of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday.
Transfer Speculations and Recent Developments
Newcastle is said to have submitted a bid nearing £55 million ($73.87 million) for the Norwegian international, who only joined Wolves on a permanent basis less than two months ago, on July 1, after terms of his loan from Celta Vigo were satisfied.
Pereira spoke highly of Strand-Larsen’s contributions, highlighting not only his technical skills but also his character.
“If it were up to me, he would definitely stay,”
Pereira asserted during a post-match press briefing. He expressed understanding of the distractions a player might face due to ongoing transfer discussions, stating,
“I can imagine his mind in this moment because he listens and reads a lot of things, yet he remains committed to the team.”
Football Transfer Realities
While Pereira values Strand-Larsen’s importance to Wolves, he is also aware of the nature of football transfers, referencing even the game’s biggest names, like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, by suggesting that all players have a valuation.
Newcastle’s Striker Situation
On the other side, Newcastle is actively seeking a new striker after Callum Wilson‘s recent departure to West Ham and the uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak‘s future with the club. Isak was notably absent from the squad due to speculation regarding his desire for a move, following a rejected £110 million offer from Liverpool earlier this month.
As Newcastle grapples with this striker situation, Anthony Gordon has stepped in to fill the void left by Isak, although his own involvement will be limited for the next three matches due to a red card received during a recent 3-2 loss against Liverpool. With their Premier League campaign still looking for momentum, Wolves are preparing to take on Everton on Saturday in a bid to secure their first league points of the season.
