Fabrizio Romano: Norwich City Sign All Documents to Seal Deal for ‘Outrageous’ Star Emmanuel Fernandez
Norwich, England – June 21, 2025
In what could prove to be one of the Championship’s shrewdest moves of the summer, Norwich City have sealed a permanent deal for towering centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez. Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the completion of the deal, revealing that all documents have now been signed between the Canaries and Peterborough United for the “outrageous” defensive talent.
Romano broke the news on Saturday afternoon, writing on X (formerly Twitter):
> “Emmanuel Fernandez to Norwich City, here we go! All documents signed and deal fully sealed — medical completed this week. Highly-rated centre-back joins for a fee just under £2 million. Huge potential, outrageous in the air.”
The 23-year-old defender becomes Norwich’s second major summer signing after the permanent acquisition of Jacob Wright from Manchester City, as the club continues to reshape its squad under incoming manager Liam Manning. Fernandez, who impressed at Peterborough with his commanding presence and ball-playing ability, had attracted interest from multiple Championship clubs, but Norwich moved swiftly to wrap up the deal after having an earlier bid accepted.
Standing at 6’5” with a reputation for physical dominance and calmness under pressure, Fernandez was widely viewed as one of the breakout defenders in League One last season. His blend of athleticism, aerial prowess, and confidence playing out from the back drew comparisons to Premier League-level defenders, with one scout reportedly describing him as “outrageous for this level.”
Norwich’s sporting director Ben Knapper praised the acquisition, saying:
> “Emmanuel fits the profile we’re building towards. He’s got the raw tools to become a top-tier defender and the intelligence to adapt to the Championship quickly. We’re delighted to welcome him to Carrow Road.”
Sources close to the deal suggest that Norwich’s persistence was key. While Peterborough had accepted the club’s “huge” bid earlier in June, negotiations over personal terms caused a brief delay. However, after a final round of talks this week, an agreement was struck and Fernandez underwent his medical on Thursday, paving the way for Romano’s signature “here we go” confirmation.
Norwich legend and Sky Sports pundit Iwan Roberts weighed in on the move:
> “This lad is a monster in the air and doesn’t get flustered with the ball at his feet. Norwich have been crying out for a centre-back like this for some time. If he develops under the right system, we’re looking at a potential Premier League defender in a year or two.”
Fernandez is expected to slot into Liam Manning’s backline immediately, especially with uncertainty surrounding the futures of Ben Gibson and Grant Hanley. The 23-year-old will join up with the first-team squad for pre-season next week and could make his debut in the upcoming friendly against Union Berlin.
With the addition of Fernandez, Norwich’s defensive rebuild is taking shape, and supporters will be hopeful that his signing marks the beginning of a
return to the top flight.
