JUST IN; Norwich City star to make controversial £10m move to Ipswich Town, Canaries have replacement ready

Marcelino Núñez Set for Shock Switch from Norwich City to Ipswich Town

In one of the most surprising moves of the summer transfer window, Norwich City are set to lose a key player to their bitter rivals, Ipswich Town.

The Canaries have had a busy transfer window, bringing in several new faces as Liam Manning looks to shape his squad in his debut season at the helm.

Although early results haven’t been ideal, there’s growing belief that Norwich will soon find their rhythm and be in the mix for Championship promotion.

However, a major blow has emerged for both Manning and the fans—midfielder Marcelino Núñez is on the verge of a controversial move to Ipswich Town.

Núñez to Make Rare Switch Across the Norfolk Divide

According to John Percy of The Telegraph, Núñez will leave Carrow Road for Portman Road in a deal worth £10 million, including £2.5 million in performance-based bonuses.

Percy reports that Núñez actively pushed for the transfer, turning down at least two contract offers from Norwich. The Chilean midfielder would have become a free agent next summer.

In response, Norwich are set to sign Pelle Mattsson from Danish side Silkeborg for £2.7 million as his replacement.

This move marks the first direct transfer between the two East Anglian clubs since goalkeeper Andy Marshall made the same switch back in 2001.

Local reporter Connor Southwell also confirmed that the transfer was driven by Núñez and his representatives, adding that it was the only offer Norwich received for him this summer.

Despite the sting of losing such a crucial player to a local rival, the club believes the deal offers strong value, given Núñez’s contract situation.

Pelle Mattsson: A Silver Lining for the Canaries

Although fans will understandably be upset by Núñez’s departure—especially to Ipswich—there is reason for optimism. Norwich are finally landing long-term target Pelle Mattsson, a player highly regarded in Danish football circles.

Earlier this summer, Danish football expert Toke Theilade praised Mattsson for his work ethic, ball-winning ability, and composure in possession.

His arrival is seen as a major coup, especially considering Norwich have effectively gained over £7 million after the transaction.

Mattsson is expected to partner Mirko Topić in central midfield, forming a dynamic and well-balanced duo. Initially, it seemed Norwich would secure either Topić or Mattsson, but now having both is a significant boost to the team’s midfield depth.

Final Thoughts

It’s hard to blame Norwich fans for feeling frustrated by Núñez’s move, especially to such a fierce rival. Yet, once emotions cool and the new signings begin to gel, this situation could turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

With a healthy transfer profit and two talented midfielders now on board, the Canaries might end this window stronger than they started it.