Crystal Palace sign Jorgen Strand Larsen in a club record deal worth up to £48m, with Jean Philippe Mateta staying after his Milan move fell through.
Crystal Palace have completed the club record signing of striker Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolves, finalising a deal worth up to £48m late on deadline day. The Norway international has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract and will wear the number 22 shirt at Selhurst Park.
Palace moved decisively as uncertainty surrounded Jean Philippe Mateta’s future, with AC Milan exploring a £30m move. That transfer ultimately collapsed, leaving Oliver Glasner with two senior striking options for the run in. The signing underlines Palace’s ambition to strengthen despite sitting clear of the relegation fight.
Negotiations accelerated over the weekend as Palace prioritised attacking reinforcements. Wolves agreed to sell Strand Larsen for an initial £43m, with a further £5m in performance related add ons. Palace sources say the player was keen on the move and did not hesitate once terms were agreed. The paperwork was completed in time, despite other late business falling through. A proposed loan move for Everton winger Dwight McNeil failed due to administrative delays.
Palace identified the need for goals after a mixed campaign in front of goal. Strand Larsen arrives having scored 14 Premier League goals last season, despite Wolves’ struggles. He has found the net only once this term, but Palace believe context matters. Wolves sit bottom of the table and have struggled creatively. Palace view the striker as a better fit for their system and expect improved service.
The 25-year-old is known for his physical presence and intelligent movement in the box. He has made 22 league appearances this season and remains among Wolves’ leaders for shots and aerial duels won. Palace analysts point to his non penalty scoring record as a key metric. Last season’s return placed him among the most efficient finishers outside the top six. Glasner believes his work rate suits Palace’s pressing style.
Strand Larsen said he was excited by the project and eager to contribute goals and energy. He is expected to be available for Sunday’s league trip to Brighton. That fixture could mark his debut if clearance is completed in time. Palace fans will hope for an immediate impact.
Jean Philippe Mateta will remain a Palace player after AC Milan pulled out of their proposed deal. The France international underwent medical tests that raised concerns over a recurring knee issue. Palace had shared full medical records, but Milan decided the risk was too high. Mateta has scored just once since early December, with the knee problem affecting his form. He now faces the challenge of refocusing at club level.
The arrival of Strand Larsen increases competition for minutes. Mateta has 18 months remaining on his contract and Palace may revisit his future in the summer. For now, Glasner must manage both players carefully. Rotation could be key as fixtures pile up.
Palace sit 15th in the table, nine points clear of the bottom three. They drew with Nottingham Forest last time out and face Brighton next. The club believe Strand Larsen’s arrival adds depth and goals for the second half of the season. Retaining Mateta also preserves experience and physicality up front. Palace have strengthened without weakening elsewhere.
