Scout Report: Jorgen Stand Larsen
Wolverhampton Wanderers have moved to fix their goalscoring issues, bringing in Celta Vigo’s Norwegian International, Jorgen Strand Larsen. Gary O’Neill will be hoping the versatile forward can add much needed goals to his Wolves side and help them really break into the top half of the Premier League.
Born in Halden, Norway, Larsen’s career began at his local side Kvik Halden, where he also spent his time playing other sports alongside football, such as hockey and tennis. As his stock rose, Larsen would move onto Sarpsborg 08, with his youth career even including a short loan to AC Milan. He would make his senior debut in 2017 as a substitute.
In 2020, the now 24-year-old moved to Eredivisie side Groningen. It was in the Netherlands where Larsen would begin to really make a name for himself, scoring 27 gaols in 71 appearances, and winning the Groningen Player of the Year in 2022.
A move to Spain was next for Larsen, as he signed for Celta Vigo for around £12 million. The forward has continued to excel on the big stage, scoring 13 goals in La Liga last season.
Larsen predominantly plays as a central striker but can play on either side of a front three. At 6ft 4, he is great inside the box with strong heading prowess, in transition he loves to play with his back to goal, holding up the ball, to create space and give layoffs. With his height, technical ability and pace to always be in the correct position, he has drawn comparisons to his international teammate, Erling Haaland, despite not having the same goal record.
The Norwegian international has joined Wolves on an initial loan deal, with an obligation to buy at a price tag of £23 million. Upon joining the side, Larsen stated he would even risk losing teeth to provide for his team.
"I have had contact with Wolves for a long time. I really like the way they want me in the squad and in the team, and I feel very comfortable coming here.
"It has been a dream to come to the Premier League ever since I was a kid. I have been following it for a long time, but it has to be in the right moment, and it feels like now is a good moment for me to do it."
"I am a tall player - but I am not only physical and there to hold up the ball, I can also run and, most importantly, I fight for the team.
"If I have to lose three teeth in a game, then I will do it.
"I give everything for the team, for the club and for the badge - and I am going to do this here." (via BBC Sport)
Larsen has a high ceiling and will need to add more goals to his game, but he certainly could be one to get excited about if you’re a Wolves fan.
