Newcastle steps up striker search amid Alexander Isak crisis

Larsen underlined his importance to Vitor Pereira’s side by scoring twice in Tuesday’s 3-2 win over West Ham. After the match, the Wolves manager acknowledged the realities of the market but stressed the Norwegian’s value to his team.

“Until now, Jorgen is our player, and we'll see what happens," Pereira said, via Sky Sports. “I understand football. Football is football. Every player has a price, I believe."I understand football, but for me, he is very, very important for us. We'll see what happens.”

Newcastle is expected to return with a third offer before the transfer window closes, with Eddie Howe eager to strengthen his attacking options amid mounting uncertainty over Alexander Isak’s future.

The Swedish striker has held crisis talks with Newcastle’s hierarchy as he continues to push for a move to Liverpool. Senior figures, including representatives from the Saudi Public Investment Fund, met with Isak in an attempt to persuade him to stay, but their efforts were reportedly unsuccessful.

Reports suggest the 25-year-old rejected an improved contract and additional incentives, instead remaining determined to force through a transfer. He has refused to train or play in recent weeks, effectively going on strike to accelerate the process.

Howe has called for “clarity” and for his squad to be made up of players fully committed to the club, with Newcastle’s preseason preparations and start of the season being overshadowed by the standoff with their leading striker.

For the club’s owners, the task is twofold, standing firm on Isak’s situation while urgently working to secure a replacement should he leave. With the window closing rapidly, Larsen has emerged as the priority target, though Wolves’ firm stance suggests any deal will not come easily.

What remains clear is that Newcastle cannot afford to stand still. With Isak sidelined by choice and no resolution in sight, Howe’s side is exposed in attack. Whether through a record-breaking move for Larsen or a late switch to another option, the outcome of Newcastle’s striker search could prove decisive for its season.