Liam Manning, who recently took the helm at Norwich City, is immediately facing a significant challenge in the summer transfer window as the club has received initial bids for star winger Borja Sainz. This comes amidst other squad considerations, including the need to replace departing goalkeeper Angus Gunn and a potential move for Josh Sargent.
EFL Analysis previously reported that Bristol City are showing interest in Michael Carrick after his recent departure from Middlesbrough. However, Manning’s immediate focus is on his new role at Norwich, particularly as the club prepares for the arrival of Daniel Grimshaw and explores options like Vladan Kovacevic to fill the void left by Gunn.
Norwich City has confirmed that they have received the first bids for Borja Sainz, with reports from Chris Reeve indicating that clubs from Italy and Portugal have made the initial offers. While Athletic Bilbao has shown “significant interest,” they are not among the first to bid. Interest is also emerging from Türkiye, suggesting a competitive market for the 24-year-old.
Sainz had an impressive 2024/25 Championship campaign, scoring 18 goals in 41 league appearances and finishing as the runner-up in the Championship Golden Boot race. This strong performance earned him a place in the league’s team of the season.
Liam Manning is undoubtedly aware of the likelihood of Sainz’s departure, and Norwich may have already begun to prepare for a future without him. However, the potential simultaneous exit of both Sainz and Josh Sargent, who is reportedly admired by Roma, would present a substantial challenge for Manning in rebuilding the attacking line.
Norwich City is reported to have a “strong transfer budget” for this window, which could enable them to move swiftly in acquiring replacements if key players depart. Despite this, the loss of Sainz would create a considerable void on the left flank at Carrow Road. Borja Sainz’s current contract with Norwich expires in 12 months, making a sale this summer a strategic move for the club to avoid losing him on a free transfer next year.
In other news, Angus Gunn launches dig at Norwich City over his Carrow Road exit
