Norwich City are actively pursuing Vancouver Whitecaps winger Ali Ahmed as they look to bolster their attacking options this January. The 25-year-old Canadian international has emerged as a key target for manager Philippe Clement, who is keen to enhance the squad's creativity as the Canaries aim for a strong second half of the Championship season. Read more about Clement Insists Sargent Stays Amid Transfer Interest.
While no formal agreement has been reached, Norwich have been monitoring Ahmed’s performances in Major League Soccer (MLS) closely. His ability to provide the flair and innovation that the team currently lacks could prove invaluable as they navigate the challenges ahead. Read more about Clement Revamps Norwich Lineup Ahead of QPR Showdown.
In the recently concluded MLS season, Ahmed enjoyed a standout campaign with the Whitecaps, contributing 11 assists and scoring two goals. His efforts were instrumental in guiding the team to the MLS Cup final, where they faced a 3-1 defeat to Lionel Messi's Inter Miami. With over 100 appearances to his name, primarily as a left winger, Ahmed's versatility allows him to adapt to various roles, including left-back and central positions when required.
Ahmed's development has not gone unnoticed, with national team coach Jesse Marsch praising his footballing intelligence. In an interview with CBC Sports, Marsch remarked, “I would argue that Ali understands how we play better than anyone on the entire team, tactically and intellectually. I value Ali as a player maybe more than any coach he’s ever had because he understands exactly what I need from players who play in his spot.”
Marsch further noted, “Ali makes mistakes like everyone else, but in terms of his pure understanding of what’s necessary at any moment, he’s almost perfect. And he can run for days.”
This week, Clement shared his vision for the upcoming transfer window, highlighting the need for increased creativity within the squad. “I’m not going to go into detail about positions because I don’t want to put the people in the club with their back against the wall,” he stated, acknowledging the complexities of the January market.
“It’s clear that we need to gain creativity in the final third. That’s what we saw also in this last game. We need to strengthen there and everybody is aligned around that. For me, it’s about quality. So, I prefer somebody who’s 12 years old but is an incredible player, and of course I’m exaggerating now, over somebody who’s 37 and did everything in the game, but he’s not fit anymore, and he cannot do it anymore.”
Clement's commitment to quality is evident in his search for the right players. “Of course, if you can add quality and leadership and you can do both, it’s always better. But I know also it’s a January window, and it’s a difficult window because there’s not one club in the world who wants to lose their best players or players who played a lot of games.” Read more about Fisher Thrives Under Clement as Norwich City Aim High.
As the transfer window progresses, Norwich City supporters are eager to see if a deal for Ahmed materialises, with hopes that his arrival could significantly enhance the team's attacking threat.