Norwich City’s ambitions of returning to the Premier League after a three-year absence appear to be fading fast, with their play-off hopes now hinging on teams above them slipping up in the final weeks of the Championship season.
It’s been a mixed debut campaign for Johannes Hoff Thorup at Carrow Road. Despite a promising start, the Canaries lost momentum during the winter months as Josh Sargent recovered from groin surgery and Borja Sainz struggled to find form in front of goal.
While Norwich have been involved in some of the most entertaining matches in the league — largely thanks to the contributions of Sargent and Sainz — their fragile defence has ultimately undermined their promotion push. Unless results swing dramatically in their favour, a play-off spot looks increasingly out of reach.
With that in mind, a squad rebuild is expected in the summer, especially at the back, and it seems one centre-back may already be on his way out.
MLS interest in Shane Duffy – Norwich urged to sell under right conditions
According to BBC Norfolk’s Chris Reeve, MLS side New York Red Bulls have tabled a bid for Norwich defender Shane Duffy. The 33-year-old has been a mainstay in Thorup’s backline this season, but the physical demands of the Championship could soon take a toll on the veteran, and a switch to the United States might offer a more manageable path as he winds down his career.
Norwich fan pundit Zeke Downes told Football League World that now could be the right time to part ways with Duffy — if the deal makes financial sense.
“I think now would be a good time to let Shane Duffy go,” he said. “I wouldn’t be against him staying to see out his contract, but if we can get any kind of fee, that would help.
“The problem is we’re left short at centre-back. We’ve only got Jose Cordoba and Ruairi McConville at the moment. Callum Doyle’s not likely to return, though Brad Hills could step up after impressing on loan.”
Zeke added:
“We’d still need an experienced addition — someone who suits our style better and is a bit more consistent. Duffy’s been a leader, but now might be the right moment for him to move on. If there’s a chance to go to the MLS, why not? It could be a great way to end his career.”
Norwich need to evolve to move forward
While Duffy’s experience has been valuable, his age and limitations mean he may not be the right fit for a side with promotion aspirations. He’ll turn 34 during the next campaign, and Norwich could benefit from investing in a younger, more agile and tactically flexible centre-back.
A move to the MLS would not only offer Duffy a fresh challenge — possibly facing global stars like Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets — but it would also give Norwich a chance to reset their defensive core.
If a suitable replacement is identified, the Canaries would be wise to sanction Duffy’s departure this summer and focus on building a team capable of mounting a serious Premier League push next season.
