Jørgen Strand Larsen, who played alongside Korean national team forward Hwang Hee-chan at Wolverhampton Wanderers in the English Premier League, has moved to Crystal Palace for a club-record transfer fee.
Crystal Palace announced on transfer deadline day Sunday that they have signed Norwegian national team striker Larsen. The transfer fee of 48 million pounds (approximately 95.3 billion won, or $65 million) marks the highest amount the club has ever spent on a single player. The contract runs for four and a half years, and Larsen will wear the number 22 shirt.
Larsen spent a season and a half at Wolverhampton with Hwang, scoring 20 goals in 65 official matches. Last season, he netted 14 goals in 35 league appearances alone, establishing himself in English football. Although he has scored just one league goal this season, Crystal Palace put their faith in Larsen's 193cm frame and goalscoring instincts.
Crystal Palace, who have invested heavily in the winter transfer window, are targeting Premier League survival. The club currently sits 15th with 29 points, nine points above the relegation zone. "Playing for Crystal Palace is something I've wanted for a long time," Larsen said. "I will bring energy and goals to the team. I'll give my best for the club." Larsen's debut is expected to come against Brighton on February 8.