Norwich City boasts a proud lineage of striking talent, with Teemu Pukki and Josh Sargent standing out as key figures in recent years. As the Canaries navigate a challenging start to the 2025-26 Championship season, Sargent’s ongoing presence at Carrow Road emerges as one of the few bright spots during this turbulent period.
Despite widespread speculation regarding a potential summer transfer, Sargent ultimately chose to remain with Norwich. His impact has been undeniable, with five league goals in just nine appearances, including a crucial strike that secured a 2-1 victory against Portsmouth and a brace in a 2-0 win over Blackburn. Read more about Manning Confident in Mattsson's Impact at Norwich City.
Sargent’s journey with Norwich began in 2021 when he signed from Bundesliga side Werder Bremen, while Pukki was still a central figure for the club. A comparison of their wages reveals the shifting dynamics between the two players. In Sargent’s first season, 2021-22, Capology reports that Pukki earned £25,000 per week, while Sargent's earnings were significantly lower at approximately £12,115.
The landscape shifted dramatically following Pukki's departure to Minnesota United in 2023. After Pukki's exit, Sargent received a contract extension in October 2023, elevating his salary to match Pukki's former wage of £25,000 per week. This agreement, which secures Sargent’s commitment to Norwich until the summer of 2028, reflects the club's confidence in him as a pivotal player for the future.
Pukki remains a celebrated figure in Norwich's history, having joined the club in June 2018 and leaving an indelible mark over five seasons. His contributions were instrumental during Norwich's promotion to the Premier League in the 2020-21 season, where he scored 26 league goals, finishing as the Championship's third-highest scorer.
When Sargent arrived at the club at just 21 years old, his initial salary mirrored his age and experience. Following Norwich's relegation at the end of the 2021-22 season, Pukki netted 11 goals while Sargent scored eight. The subsequent season saw Sargent outperform Pukki, scoring 13 league goals compared to Pukki's 10.
Despite Norwich’s struggles to mount a serious promotion challenge since that season, Sargent has emerged as an integral player. He has consistently achieved double figures for goals over the past two seasons, netting 16 in 2023-24 and 15 in 2024-25. His strong start to the current season suggests he is on track to replicate that success.
The club's determination to retain Sargent during the summer transfer window underscores his significance to the squad. Even in a team facing numerous challenges, his ability to score has provided a much-needed beacon of hope for Norwich supporters. In terms of influence and impact, Sargent has seamlessly stepped into the void left by the legendary Pukki.
As Norwich City continues its campaign, the development of their strike force, led by Sargent, will be a key storyline to follow. The American international has not only filled Pukki’s role but also appears poised to establish his own legacy at Carrow Road.