Norwich City defender Brad Hills is on the verge of a transfer to League One side Stockport County, according to reports from The Pink'un. The 21-year-old centre-back is expected to undergo a medical examination within the next 24 hours, with an initial transfer fee of £1 million potentially rising to £2 million, alongside a significant sell-on clause negotiated by the Canaries.
Hills enjoyed a successful loan spell with Stockport last season, making 18 appearances and playing a key role in the team’s impressive third-place finish in League One. Although Dave Challinor’s side fell short in the play-offs, they have started the current season strongly, securing maximum points from their first two matches.
Interest in Hills has been widespread this summer, but Stockport has emerged as the frontrunner for his signature. Notably, Hills was absent from the matchday squad during Norwich's Championship opener against Millwall and their League Cup fixture against Watford on Tuesday evening.
Norwich head coach Liam Manning has indicated a desire to reduce the squad size as the summer transfer window nears its conclusion. Following a friendly against NAC Breda, Manning spoke about Hills' future prospects: "He's another one who's been terrific pre-season in terms of his attitude, his application, and how he's competed. We'll keep pushing him and see how he goes. Things will probably be a little bit clearer in the next two weeks."
Manning also revealed that he had an honest discussion with Hills regarding his career trajectory. "I've had a really good honest chat with Brad. I've been quite straight up. I think with where things are at, he obviously wants to and is desperate to play as all the lads are. I think it's one we'll see span out in the next few weeks."
With ten senior players added to the squad this summer, including new centre-back recruits Harry Darling and Jakov Medic, Hills faces increasing competition for a place in the team. The defensive lineup also features Shane Duffy, Ruairi McConville, and Manny Adegboyega, making it challenging for him to secure regular first-team opportunities.
A product of Norwich’s academy, Hills has made five senior appearances for his boyhood club, debuting in a League Cup match against Stevenage in August 2024 and adding three Championship outings last season under former manager Johannes Hoff Thorup. Prior to his time at Stockport, he had a notable loan spell at Accrington Stanley during the 2023/24 season, where he participated in 48 matches in League Two.
During Norwich’s summer tour in the Netherlands, Hills expressed his desire for consistent first-team football: "I enjoyed my time at Stockport. It was everything I wanted. I went and played games, which is the main thing," he stated to The Pink'un. "But now that I've come back, it's another shot to try and impress a new manager and try and make a claim in this team now. So, that's what I'm trying to do. Hopefully, just keep doing what I'm doing and I'll be alright."
As Hills edges closer to a potential move, Norwich City supporters will be keenly observing this new chapter in the young defender's career.