As the transfer deadline approaches, Norwich City are preparing for a crucial day, with plans to strengthen their midfield by securing a 'ball-playing number six.' This comes alongside the anticipated signing of Mohamed Toure from Randers, expected to be finalised for approximately £3.3 million. Manager Philippe Clement has confirmed that while the club is focused on enhancing their midfield, they will not pursue a left-back following the unfortunate injury to Harry Amass. Read more about Clement Demands Resilience as Mattsson Faces Extended Layoff.
Amass, currently on loan from Manchester United, suffered a hamstring injury during training just before the team's narrow 1-0 defeat to Middlesbrough. Clement disclosed that the injury will sideline the talented teenager for an extended period, prompting the Canaries to seek solutions within their existing squad.
"Harry, in the dying seconds of the last training got an injury," Clement explained. "I didn't want to say anything at the press conference because our first thing was to assess the situation. The assessment is made and that it will be a longer-term injury."
With Amass out of contention, the Belgian manager faces a challenge but remains determined to find solutions without adding another left-back to the roster, despite already having four. "That's a difficult decision, but to bring in a fifth for the three or four months to come would also be a difficult thing," he remarked. "So we decided all together to find solutions in this squad, what we did before also, and solve it like that, because we want to have priority in other positions also."
Regarding Toure’s impending transfer, Clement was cautious in his statements, aware of the unpredictability that often accompanies transfer dealings. "I wish I could give you more information but in more than 30 years in football I know how things can change at the last second," he said. "And then, as a club or as a manager, you look like a fool when you talk, when you say that some people will come. And finally, there’s no written contract, or they're not in the building or something happens." Read more about Norwich Target Høgh as Ipswich Join Transfer Chase.
Clement also addressed the midfield situation, highlighting the necessity for a player who can provide a different style to complement the current group. "We're working on that. I think the team needs a ball-playing midfielder because we have good midfielders, but a different style of play, so the club is working hard."
As the clock ticks down to Monday's 7pm deadline, Norwich City are eager to enhance their squad. The potential arrivals of Toure and a new midfielder could be crucial in reigniting their campaign as they navigate the challenges ahead in the season.