Norwich City manager Liam Manning is preparing to launch a summer bid for Bristol City forward Anis Mehmeti, as he begins shaping his squad for a promotion challenge.
The 39-year-old was unveiled as Norwich’s new head coach earlier this week, replacing interim boss Jack Wilshere, who had stepped in following the April departure of Johannes Hoff Thorup. Now, with the club eager to return to the Premier League after a disappointing 2024/25 campaign, Manning is looking to strengthen his attack—and Mehmeti appears to be a primary target.
Thrived Under Manning
The Albanian international thrived under Manning at Ashton Gate last season, finishing as Bristol City’s top scorer with 12 goals as they secured a top-six finish in the Championship. Despite their play-off qualification, the Robins were heavily beaten in the semi-finals, losing 6-0 on aggregate, and are now at risk of losing one of their standout performers.
SportsBoom reports that Mehmeti, who has just one year remaining on his current contract, is firmly in Manning’s sights as he looks to build a side capable of challenging at the top of the second tier.
The 24-year-old has previously featured in the Championship with Wycombe Wanderers and has notched 17 goals in 105 appearances since arriving at Bristol City in January 2023. He earned his first international cap for Albania in 2022 and has made three appearances for his country.
While the Robins are keen to offer the winger an extended deal in recognition of his contributions last season, the opportunity to link up with Manning again—this time at Carrow Road—could be a tempting proposition.
Manning, who previously managed MK Dons and Oxford United, guided Bristol City to one of their best campaigns in recent memory before his switch to East Anglia. His emphasis on attacking football and player development was evident throughout the campaign and could now prove a vital factor in Mehmeti’s decision.
Norwich endured an inconsistent season and narrowly missed out on the play-offs. Manning’s appointment is seen as a strategic reset, and a move for Mehmeti would underline their intent to invest in proven Championship performers rather than taking risks on unproven talent.
Writer’s View
Liam Manning targeting Anis Mehmeti is a logical move that speaks volumes about the direction Norwich are hoping to head in. Not only is Mehmeti proven at Championship level, but he also fits Manning’s style perfectly—direct, technically sharp, and confident in front of goal.
Norwich need a dynamic presence in wide areas to replace the inconsistency that plagued them last season, and Mehmeti offers just that. With only a year left on his contract, it’s a calculated gamble that could pay off handsomely—especially if the player’s relationship with his former boss tips the scales in Norwich’s favour. The ball is now in Bristol City’s court, but unless they move quickly to tie him down, they could be set to lose one of their most valuable assets.