Norwich City winger Borja Sainz’s £14.25 million transfer to Portuguese giants FC Porto is reaching is conclusion, with the star saying goodbye at the club’s training ground earlier today.
News of the 24-year-old’s move to the two-time European champions emerged last week, with it claimed the two clubs were locked in negotiations. Sainz had risen to prominence following an excellent season at Carrow Road, which saw him bag 19 goals in all competitions.
The return was a significant increase on his numbers the season prior, where he netted six times in 33 Championship outings after joining on a free transfer following his exit from Turkish outfit Giresunspor. Alongside striker Josh Sargent, the duo went on to form one of the deadliest attacks in the second tier.
Despite that, Norwich underwhelmed last season. They never really threatened to launch a serious bid for the play-offs and eventually finished 13th.
Transfer Fee Represents Huge Business For Norwich
Earlier reports last week claimed that Norwich were set to receive around £13 million from Porto for Sainz’s services. However, it appears as if they have managed to negotiate a more lucrative fee, with Norwich Evening News reporting the figure stands at £14.25 million. Furthermore, the deal is said to include a 25% sell-on fee, which will presumably be on any future profit made on the player.
🚨💙🤍 Borja Sainz to FC Porto, here we go! Deal agreed with Norwich for €16.5m package, add-ons included.
Green light also from the player as Borja will be new addition for Francesco Farioli. pic.twitter.com/XtzBpUIPxX
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 8, 2025
This represents a huge piece of business for the East Anglians. The income will be pure profit, with the former Spain youth international having arrived on a free transfer two years ago.
Elsewhere, it is claimed that Burnley are readying an £18 million bid for Sargent. However, they continue to face competition from fellow promoted side Leeds United.
Writer’s View
Although some will be disappointed to lose a player of Sainz’s calibre, Norwich will be delighted with the sum they have received. That should give them ample funds to find a replacement as Liam Manning looks to shape his squad ahead of his debut season at Carrow Road. They will be hoping that the Josh Sargent saga can also reach a swift conclusion so they can continue to plan for the upcoming campaign. With pre-season well underway, it is imperative the new head coach knows exactly what he has to work with.
