Costs for Strand Larsen high, with Wolves wanting £40m
Gil Vicente’s Pablo has nine goals in Portuguese top flight
West Ham are in advanced talks over a deal for the Gil Vicente forward Pablo after having second thoughts about bidding for the Wolves striker Jørgen Strand Larsen.
Nuno Espírito Santo, whose side are at major risk of relegation from the Premier League, wants attacking reinforcements and club sources indicated on Tuesday that an opening offer for Strand Larsen was being prepared. However, there is a scattergun feel to West Ham’s recruitment and they have developed cold feet over the finances around Strand Larsen. Wolves want £40m for the Norwegian, whose wage demands are high.
West Ham, who are closing in on a deal for the Fulham winger Adama Traoré, made an informal inquiry for Strand Larsen this month but have identified Pablo as a cheaper option. Gil Vicente, the surprise package in Portugal this season, are expected to want €20m (£17.5m) for the Brazilian. It is understood negotiations are moving in the right direction.
