Adrian Clarke examines the significant summer transfers and their potential influence on their respective Premier League teams this season.
Player Overview - Jorgen Strand Larsen (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
In recent seasons, Wolves have struggled to find a consistent goalscorer who can also serve as a strong presence at the center forward position. Raul Jimenez excelled until a serious injury in November 2020, leaving the striker role problematic for the club.
This summer, head coach Gary O’Neil has targeted Norway international Strand Larsen to address this need. At 6ft 4in, he possesses aerial strength and is adept at holding up the ball to facilitate play. The 24-year-old also showcases quick movement and a proactive approach to making runs behind defenses. Last season, he scored 13 goals in La Liga while playing for Celta Vigo, demonstrating his composure in front of goal.
Position: Target man
Neither of Wolves’ joint-top scorers from last season, Hwang Hee-chan or Matheus Cunha, is ideally suited for the No 9 position. Cunha is more of a false nine or attacking midfielder, while Hwang thrives as a wide forward. Strand Larsen is a more natural option to lead the attack.
Wolves lacked aerial threat in their front line during the 2023/24 season, with Cunha recording the highest number of aerial duels at just 16. In contrast, Strand Larsen, who joins on loan with a future purchase obligation, won 173 aerial duels in La Liga.
His presence should encourage Wolves’ wing-backs to deliver more crosses, as they were among the bottom five Premier League teams in open play crosses last season, successfully completing only 74 of under 400 attempts.
Style: Threat in the box
Strand Larsen has drawn comparisons to his fellow Norwegian, Erling Haaland, due to their shared height and playing style. However, while Strand Larsen is slightly leaner and predominantly right-footed, Haaland favors his left. Notably, Strand Larsen engages more in build-up play, averaging 34.9 touches per 90 minutes compared to Haaland's 24.5.
He is also a proficient poacher, often positioning himself for close-range opportunities, with eight of his 13 goals coming from six yards or less. With adequate service, he can capitalize on crosses effectively.
Notable Skill: Right foot curlers
As Norway's second-choice center forward, Strand Larsen often plays on the left of the attack. For Wolves, he tends to drift into the left channel, skillfully evading defenders to score with curling right-footed shots into the far corner.
Integration into the Team
Strand Larsen addresses a gap in Wolves' lineup that has hindered their performance in recent years. O’Neil frequently alters formations, using nine different setups during 2023/24, but typically employs a lone striker. If Strand Larsen takes the lead, it could benefit Cunha and Hwang to provide support from the flanks and behind.
Looking Ahead
Strand Larsen has a knack for positioning himself in goal-scoring opportunities, often staying within the goalposts' width and making intelligent runs to capitalize on quality chances. His non-penalty expected goals (xG) last season in La Liga placed him among the top players in Europe.
The upcoming challenge for Wolves and O’Neil will be to deliver the service that suits Strand Larsen’s style. If they effectively leverage his strengths and he remains injury-free, he could significantly contribute to the team's success.