Norwich City made a shrewd free transfer move for Emiliano Marcondes last October, bringing him in after his AFC Bournemouth exit.
Norwich City recruited a fair few players in the summer transfer window. NCFC backed Johannes Hoff Thorup well after appointing him as their permanent David Wagner replacement.
However, as many clubs do, the Canaries kept an eye on the free transfer market as a potential means of strengthening the squad further. Some fine players become available on bargain deals after summer releases.
norwich city, Norwich City would be foolish not to extend 30-year-old’s contract: Opinion
Image courtesy of: PETER CZIBORRA/REUTERS.
The first week of October saw Emiliano Marcondes arrive at Carrow Road, and he’s since played a prevalent role for the Championship side.
His initial deal only runs until the end of this season, but Norwich City have the capacity to keep him for longer and would be foolish not to.
A solid output from Marcondes
As have Norwich City as a whole, Marcondes hasn’t been at the top of his game all season. Hot streaks have come and gone and there have been some off moments for the Dane.
However, looking at the wider picture, his signing should be deemed a success. The former Bournemouth man has come in and notched four goals and six assists in 27 games for Thorup and co.
norwich city, Norwich City would be foolish not to extend 30-year-old’s contract: Opinion
Image courtesy of: PAUL CHILDS/REUTERS.
Marcondes has operated mainly in attacking midfield but in a free role, he has been able to drift out wide or even play close to the striker. It makes him a tricky customer to manage and it is clear he has a strong understanding of Thorup’s setup having crossed paths at FC Nordsjaelland.
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He may not be a long-term prospect or a true standout foR NCFC, but Marcondes is a smart and versatile player, and a dependable one at that.
Upon the announcement of Marcondes’ signing, Norwich City confirmed there was a 12-month extension option included in his deal.
The presence of such a clause makes it a no-brainer to hold onto him. He may not have much resale value at 30 and there may be a desire to offer such a role to someone like Oscar Schwartau in the long run.
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While he continues to develop though, Marcondes is a source of experience and versatility. His output this season shows he can still come up with key attacking contributions.
The clause makes it highly likely that NCFC keep Marcondes beyond the end of this season and frankly, it would be a big surprise if they didn’t.
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