The list of players supposedly on Norwich’s transfer radar is endless, and grows almost by the day. Even though the new season has only just officially started, every outfield position could be covered if we actually signed these players linked to Carrow Road. Here’s the best starting 11 that these players apparently subject to Alex Neil’s interest could make.
Goalkeeper: N/A
Despite early murmurs of Mourinho apparently eyeing John Ruddy as his replacement as chief benchwarmer, it seems the London club will be choosing Stoke’s Asmir Begovic to replace Cech. Good decision José.
Right Back: DeAndre Yedlin
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The American was subject to strong speculation of joining Norwich on loan recently. Despite Sky Sports confirming he will be loaned out, the rumour has since faded. With blistering pace, he would undoubtedly be near the top of any Norwich fan’s wish list. With Kyle Naughton’s successful loan in 2011, the Tottenham management may prefer Norwich to other potential suitors.
Centre Back: Efe Ambrose
With the Russell Martin situation, it was no surprise to see the central defence subject to speculation. Although most in Norfolk would prefer his centre back partner at Celtic, the 6ft 3 Nigerian would still be a welcome addition.
Centre Back: Virgil van Dijk
Probably the most likely to be our second signing so far, the Dutchman has been linked with clubs at the very top of English football. Being 6ft 4, good with the ball and only 23 years old, this would be a huge boost to our survival hopes. Reports say Gary Hooper, wanted by his old club, could hold the key to this deal.
Left Back: Ben Purrington
Definitely the position that’s seen the least amount of speculation, which is hardly surprising when you have someone as consistent as Martin Olsson. But the Plymouth youngster is widely seen as a promising future talent, and would have plenty of time to develop in the Under 21s and in cup competition.
Left Wing: Robbie Brady
When you see the same name linked again and again, that usually means there’s some truth to it. So we may well see the Manchester United academy product playing in yellow. The Irishman has more speed and trickery than Johnson, and is also a very capable defender. The only problem seems to be the outrageous £15m reportedly demanded for him. Recent reports suggest, however, they have since dropped it to a slightly more realistic £10m.
Centre Midfield: Youssouf Mulumbu
Although now a City player, it was only a couple of weeks ago he was just another rumour. And it looks likely that Mulumbu won’t be the only name in this Rumour XI that are in the City squad come August. Only time will tell how good the free transfer will be for the club, but the early signs look good.
Centre Midfield: James McCarthur
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The first name to be heavily linked with a move to Norfolk. Links were inevitable after Alex Neil praised him publically numerous times since playing with him at Hamilton. Despite McCarthur returning the favour and speaking highly of the City boss, it has since gone cold. And with our depth in that department, this was probably nothing more than lazy journalism.
Right Wing: Nathan Dyer
The Swansea man is the most recent name to apparently be on our radar, as well as Newcastle and Sunderland. After the Welsh club signed Marseille winger Andre Ayew, it’s clear his game time will be limited as Gary Monk looks to push his team further up the table. He’d bring bags of pace and experience, and be a welcome addition to most bottom half clubs.
Striker: Rudy Gestede
With the local press already talking of his likely replacement, it seems as though Blackburn have resided to the fact that he will be leaving the club. But Rovers have no need to sell him on the cheap, and will be happy to keep him if his £7m valuation isn’t met. It looks like a battle with Watford for his signature.
Striker: Dieumerci Mbokani
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This has got a bit messy. We reportedly bid around £4m, but Kiev wanted £5.5m for the target man. Anderlecht’s president has since flown to Ukraine to find the remaining money still owed by Dynamo Kiev when they purchased Mbokani in 2013. The on-going conflict in the area has left Ukranian clubs in a sticky wicket. This deal definitely won’t be happening any time soon.
Bench:
Jazz Richards
Sam Clucas
Alireza Jahanbakhsh
Dame N’Doye
John Guidetti
Glen Murray
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