Norwich City Target Cruzeiro Defender Marlon for January Move
Norwich City are reportedly preparing a bid to sign Cruzeiro left-back Marlon during the January transfer window. Goal Brasil claims that the Canaries are in discussions to secure the Brazilian defender, with a proposed offer of around £4 million expected to persuade Cruzeiro to sell.
After finishing sixth in the Championship last season and losing to Leeds United in the play-off semi-finals, Norwich have struggled for consistency under new head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup. A 2-1 defeat to Burnley at Carrow Road on Sunday marked their 10th game without a win in their last 12 matches, leaving the Canaries in 12th place, eight points adrift of the play-off spots.
Defensive issues have plagued Norwich this season, with the team conceding 32 league goals—the joint-worst record in the division. Thorup appears focused on strengthening his backline, and Marlon has emerged as a key target.
Marlon’s Background and Performance
The 27-year-old joined Cruzeiro in March 2023 following stints with Criciúma, Fluminense, Boavista, Trabzonspor, and Ankaragücü. He has been a regular starter for Cruzeiro, making 52 appearances this season, contributing one goal and one assist. However, his nine yellow cards and three red cards highlight potential disciplinary concerns.
Despite being under contract with Cruzeiro until December 2026, the club is reportedly open to a January sale. Norwich’s potential £4 million bid would meet Marlon’s valuation, and negotiations are said to be underway, though no formal offer has been submitted.
Competition for Marlon
Norwich face stiff competition for Marlon’s signature. Six Brazilian clubs, including Bahia, Corinthians, Grêmio, Internacional, Red Bull Bragantino, and São Paulo, have also expressed interest in the defender.
The Canaries made defensive adjustments over the summer, selling Sam McCallum and Dimitris Giannoulis and signing Ben Chrisene from Aston Villa for £1.5 million. However, Chrisene has started only six matches this season, with Manchester City loanee Callum Doyle often deployed at left-back.
Considerations for Norwich
While strengthening the defence is a priority, Norwich must balance their needs carefully. With key forward Josh Sargent sidelined and an ongoing injury crisis exposing their lack of depth, fans may urge the club to prioritize attacking reinforcements in January to revive their play-off hopes.
Marlon’s experience in the Brazilian top flight suggests he could adapt to the Championship, but his disciplinary record raises concerns. A £4 million investment in a defender with potential risks warrants careful consideration by
the Norwich hierarchy.
