Following a disappointing play-off attempt, culminating with a 4-0 defeat away at Elland Road. Norwich City could be set to lose a key asset this summer.
Wolverhampton Wanderers are the reported club trying to lure Jonathan Rowe away from Carrow Road. Gary O’Neil’s side find themselves in a luxurious financial position, compared to the majority of the Premier League, as their recent outgoings have totalled to a profit of over £140 million.
Rowe has been at the Norfolk side since Under-18 level, where he played his first official game in April 2019. The 21-year-old has so far gone on to star in 56 matches for the Canaries and has garnered interest for his signature, following a ‘break-through’ season.
With 12 goals and two assists in this Championship campaign, Rowe will undoubtedly be a sought-after prospect for a host of Premier League clubs. Wolves have come knocking early, and this bravery could well pay off.
This will be O’Neil’s first summer window with the Midlands side and he will be hoping to bolster an already impressive squad with signings that not only enhance the first team, but give them depth. This proposal offers top-flight football under a promising manager.
Norwich themselves, are without a manager at this point in time and will likely direct a lot of attention towards this aspect. This could leave Rowe ‘in the dark’ considering his contract expires in 12 months.
The 21-year-old’s impressive endeavours on the pitch are exemplified by his key statistics this season. Rowe ranks in the 92nd percentile for fouls won, when compared to other attackers in the second division. The Norwich winger also isn’t shy to a challenge, as he has won 156 duels in this recent season.
Furthermore, with the length of Rowe’s current deal at Carrow Road growing shorter by the day, and now only a year remaining, the Wolves boss may be able to strike a bargain for the attacker. Equally, the Midlands side have the capacity to price the Canaries out of retaining his services.
Writer’s View
The Norwich academy graduate would be more than a welcoming signing at Molyneux, should he put pen to paper with Wolves this summer. His prolific numbers in the Championship have given him the perfect platform to host his talents.
O’Neil will have a gem on his hands and could easily incorporate a player like Rowe, with his skill set being similar to Pedro Neto’s. The latter may leave in the summer and the 21-year-old could suit as the perfect replacement. Rather than heading to a ‘Big Six’ club, this might be the perfect stepping stone for Rowe.