Norwich City are set to land highly-rated teenager Reece Wilkes from Fleetwood Town as Liam Manning kicks off his rebuild at Carrow Road.
The 16-year-old midfielder is expected to join the Championship outfit after impressing for Fleetwood during the 2024/25 campaign.
Young England Prospect Snapped Up
Wilkes, who also represents England at youth level, emerged as one of League Two’s brightest young talents last season, standing out in the EFL Trophy and making a handful of senior appearances. Having spent close to a decade with Fleetwood Town, the attacking midfielder now makes the leap to Norfolk as part of Norwich’s long-term strategy under new manager Liam Manning.
Manning, who took over from Johannes Hoff Thorup following his brief interim replacement Jack Wilshere, is tasked with revitalising a squad that finished a disappointing 13th in the Championship last term. While senior additions are expected, the club is equally focused on bringing in talented prospects who can be nurtured for the future.
Wilkes fits that mould perfectly. His performances for Fleetwood’s first team – despite his age – caught the eye of scouts, and his decision to join the Canaries reflects the faith he has in Norwich’s player development model.
The club has a proven track record of bringing through young talent, having previously developed the likes of Todd Cantwell, Jacob Murphy, and Josh Murphy, who have all contributed significantly at both club and Premier League level before moving on for substantial fees.
Wilkes will also be joining a squad where youth is clearly being given a chance. Midfield duo Gabriel Forsyth and Oscar Schwartau, aged 18 and 19 respectively, made 50 combined appearances last season after arriving from Hamilton Academical and Brøndby. Their success will offer encouragement to the incoming Wilkes as he prepares to settle in and adjust to the demands of Championship football.
Although a direct role in the first team may not come immediately, the youngster will benefit from training alongside experienced midfielders like Kenny McLean and Marcelino Núñez. With careful management of his development and minutes, Norwich will hope to turn him into another success story from their well-regarded pathway system.
Writer’s View
Reece Wilkes might be just 16, but this transfer highlights Norwich City’s clear vision under Liam Manning. The club’s investment in young talent is part of a broader strategy that has worked for them in the past, both in terms of performance and player sales.
While the Canaries have struggled for consistency in recent seasons, smart acquisitions like Wilkes suggest the future may once again be built on youth. If he’s managed correctly, this could be a move that pays dividends both on and off the pitch.
