This installment is part of Football League World’s ‘Terrace Talk’ series, featuring personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits on the latest news, teams, players, managers, potential signings, and more.
After finishing sixth in the Championship last season, Norwich City has been quite active in the summer transfer market. With the arrival of manager Johannes Hoff Thorup, the team is aiming to make a return to the Premier League. However, they have had to part ways with key players like Gabriel Sara, who moved to Galatasaray, and Adam Idah, who sealed a £9.5 million deal with Celtic.
With funds generated from these sales, Thorup will be looking to strengthen the squad before the window closes.
Norwich City’s Greatest Bargain Signings
According to FLW’s Norwich fan pundit Zeke Downes, Teemu Pukki and Emi Buendía are considered the most valuable bargain signings for the club. Downes also mentioned James Maddison’s transfer from Coventry City for £2.5 million, a deal that turned out to be extremely profitable as he was later sold for £25 million after a single season with Norwich.
Pukki, a free signing from Brondby in 2018, spent five successful years with Norwich, scoring 87 goals in 198 league appearances. Buendia, signed for £1.5 million, made 113 league appearances, contributing 24 goals and 34 assists before moving to Aston Villa.
Pukki’s Legacy at Norwich
Pukki played a pivotal role in Norwich’s two promotions to the Premier League, earning legendary status at the club. Despite leaving for MLS club Minnesota United after Norwich’s 13th place finish in 2023, his impact on the team was undeniable. Buendía also proved to be a successful signing before his move to Aston Villa in 2021.
Both players were crucial to Norwich’s success and Thorup will certainly be hoping to find replacements of the same caliber to bolster the squad this season.
