Crystal Palace eye Wolves star Jorgen Strand Larsen as Jean-Philippe Mateta replacement

Crystal Palace were shocked to learn of striker Jean-Philippe Marteta’s desire to leave Selhurst Park before the January transfer window closes, and the club has identified Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen as a potential replacement for the French striker.

According to a report by talkSPORT, Palace have held talks with Wolves regarding a potential move for their Norwegian striker, who is valued at around £40 million.

Mateta has openly declared his intent to leave Palace this month, with a host of top clubs, including Premier League side Aston Villa, Juventus, and AC Milan, all showing interest in signing the French international.

Meanwhile, Strand Larsen — who has attracted interest from Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur— is viewed as a ready-made replacement for the 28-year-old Mateta.

To smooth the deal, Palace sporting director Matt Hobbs — who previously orchestrated Strand Larsen’s arrival at Molineux — is leading the push to bring the 25-year-old forward back to Selhurst Park.

The Norwegian striker has already proven himself in the Premier League, scoring 14 goals in 35 league matches during his debut season following his move from La Liga side Celta Vigo.

Wolves initially signed the 1.93-meter-tall striker on a season-long loan before eventually making the move permanent last summer.

Strand Larsen, who signed a five-year contract with Wolves, was subject to interest from Newcastle, who were willing to splash £60m on the striker as a replacement for the outgoing Alexander Isak.

The Wolves striker has fortunately retained his high stock, even though his form has dipped drastically -scoring just once in the Premier League, as Wolves continue to battle to avoid relegation – with just one win in 22 Premier League outings.

He has since attracted numerous suitors, and a move this month is expected to materialise before the deadline day on February 2.

However, for a move to materialise, Palace must first sanction the sale of Mateta, with the Frenchman having just 18 months remaining on his contract with talks to extend his stay in south London at a standstill.

Mateta’s desire to represent France at this summer’s World Cup is driving his potential move, with the striker now in contention for Didier Deschamps’ squad following his senior debut in October and goals in his last two appearances for Les Bleus.