With Norwich City now sitting in a favourable position to retain their Championship status for another season, attention is already turning to the 2026/27 campaign.
The Canaries, on 45 points with 11 games to go, have enjoyed a remarkable turnaround since the appointment of Philippe Clement last November.
Recent success is tinged with slight disappointment that the Belgian – who took over with City having recorded just nine points from 15 games – hadn’t been appointed earlier.
However, the tantalising prospect of a full pre-season and second transfer window for Clement has fans dreaming of further success next season.
This summer will no doubt see a further turn of the wheel in terms of ins and outs as the former Rangers boss looks to shape the squad to his liking.
The rebuild will start with those out of contract this summer, including Shane Duffy, Emiliano Marcondes and captain Kenny McLean.
But who of those – if any – should be kept on?
Here are my thoughts.
Kenny McLean
The Mayor has been ever-present in City’s midfield this season, featuring in 32 of 35 league games.
While McLean’s contract – signed in 2023 – expires this summer, City retain the option of a further year.
Given his importance both on and off the pitch under Clement, it would be very surprising if that option wasn’t taken up.
Could there be a world where the Scotland international signs a two-year extension to take him up to 2028 and 10 years service?
Shane Duffy
With just four appearances this season, it’s fair to say that Duffy’s third campaign in Norfolk hasn’t gone as planned.
Reports last summer suggested that the 34-year-old could leave if an appropriate opportunity arose, having been deemed surplus to requirements under Liam Manning.
Presumably one of the club’s higher earners, and with sporting director Ben Knapper prioritising younger players with high re-sale value, it’s hard to see a world where Duffy’s services are retained.
Duffy’s time with the Canaries will likely be remembered more for off-pitch matters than his contributions on it.
Emiliano Marcondes
Signed as a free agent by Johannes Hoff Thorup in October 2024, Marcondes has experienced a mixed 18 months with the Canaries.
There is no denying that the Dane has popped up with several important goals, but his general play often leaves plenty to be desired.
Usually spending more time on his backside than feet, Marcondes has featured just once for Clement in 2026.
Edging closer to his 31st birthday, it seems unlikely that the former Brentford man will be offered a new deal.
Jeffrey Schlupp
Signed as defensive cover for Ben Chrisene and Lucien Mahovo, Schlupp hasn’t featured since picking up a serious hamstring injury away at Sheffield Wednesday on November 5.
Other than an impressive 45 minutes against Hull City, Schlupp’s time in a yellow shirt hasn’t exactly been memorable. At 33, he is entering the twilight of his career and may be looking for one last payday.
A contract extension doesn’t appear likely.
Tony Springett
Formerly the forgotten man, Tony Springett has enjoyed a surprising revival under Clement.
Even filling in at left-back, the 23-year-old has proven a useful member of the squad and always shows commendable workrate when on the pitch.
City retain the option for a further year, but it’s hard to see a world where Springett gets much first-team action next season after Clement has another transfer window to shape the squad.
A parting of the ways seems likely, although Springett’s retention as a squad player shouldn’t be ruled out.
Dan Barden
Currently on loan at Dagenham & Redbridge, youth product Dan Barden has made four first-team appearances for the Canaries.
At 25-years-old Barden is entering an important stage of his career and needs to be playing regular football.
Playing time at his parent club appears unlikely, with all signs pointing to a summer exit.
