Norwich City find themselves at a pivotal moment in their season, with the spectre of relegation casting a long shadow over Carrow Road. As the club grapples with the immediate threat of dropping out of the Championship, attention turns to the futures of several key players, particularly as the summer transfer window approaches.
Under the stewardship of Philippe Clement, who took over from Liam Manning during a challenging campaign, Norwich are bracing for significant changes, especially regarding player contracts. Reports from Football League World suggest that a number of players are likely to depart as their contracts come to an end.
Jeffrey Schlupp, who joined Norwich last summer on a one-year deal after leaving Crystal Palace, has struggled to make a meaningful impact in the Championship. His limited contributions make it seem unlikely that he will remain at the club beyond this season.
Emiliano Marcondes, whose contract was extended last summer, also finds himself in a precarious position. With his contract set to expire in June and his playing time diminishing, he appears to be another player facing the exit door.
Shane Duffy's tenure at Norwich is nearing its conclusion. The centre-back, who joined from Brighton on a three-year contract last July, has seen his playing time drastically reduced under both Manning and Clement. Given the current circumstances, it seems inevitable that he will depart when his contract expires.
Kenny McLean's situation presents a more complex scenario. The Scotland international has been a vital part of Norwich's midfield this season, yet his contract is also due to expire this summer. The club holds the option to extend his contract for an additional year, and it would be surprising if they chose to let him go without first exploring that possibility, especially considering his importance to the team.
Tony Springett is another player whose future remains uncertain. The young Irishman has struggled to secure regular playing time, and with no option for a one-year extension, he could be on his way out at the end of the campaign.
Daniel Barden, a product of Norwich's academy, finds himself in a similar predicament. Despite having a contract that runs until June 2026, his position in the squad has been tenuous, raising questions about his status as a potential free agent at the end of the season.
As Norwich City navigate this challenging period, the decisions made in the coming weeks will be crucial—not only for the club's immediate survival but also for the direction they take in the seasons ahead.