Crystal Palace's £43 million bid for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen is set to break their transfer record, potentially paving the way for Jean-Philippe Mateta's departure. The club has prioritized securing a new center-forward due to uncertainty surrounding Mateta's future at Selhurst Park. Palace has already signed Evann Guessandon on loan from Aston Villa, but they are also in talks with AC Milan to bring Mateta to Italy. Strand Larsen, who was previously denied a move to Newcastle, is now the top choice for manager Oliver Glasner. The Magpies rejected a £55 million bid, eventually opting for Yoane Wissa. Despite being linked to Leeds and Nottingham Forest, Palace is poised to win the race for his signature. The move to south London is imminent, with Wolves accepting a guaranteed £43 million offer and an additional £5 million in potential add-ons. This deal surpasses Palace's previous record signing, Brennan Johnson, who joined from Tottenham Hotspur. talkSPORT reported that Wolves expected an offer around £45 million, rising to £50 million. Strand Larsen's impressive first season in England, with 14 goals in 35 Premier League games, has not been replicated this season, with only one goal in 23 top-flight matches. His recent lack of goals has contributed to Wolves' struggles, 17 points from safety. However, he has scored five goals across FA Cup and Carabao Cup fixtures, bringing his total to six for the season. If the move to Palace is finalized, he could make his debut in the M23 derby against Brighton next weekend. Meanwhile, Mateta's future at Palace appears uncertain. The Frenchman was omitted from the team for the clash against Forest at the City Ground on Sunday. AC Milan has made an offer of £35 million, which is short of Palace's £40 million valuation. Mateta's cryptic social media post expressing frustration about his impending move to AC Milan adds to the speculation. With his contract set to expire in 2027, Mateta has informed Palace officials of his desire to move before the summer.
