Norwich City have a history of stealing Leeds United’s star men – they could also nab one of their top targets with Barnsley’s Marley Watkins edging closer.
Everyone enjoys a bargain. Particularly when that bargain has just enjoyed a sensational Championship season, netting 10 goals and producing seven assists to lead a newly promoted side to the safety of mid-table.
According to the Daily Mail, Leeds United were indeed interested in swooping for Barnsley’s Marley Watkins when his contract expired at the end of the season. Aston Villa, Ipswich Town, Cardiff City and Wolves have also been credited with a desire to sign the 26-year-old on a free.
And it appeared that Watkins would be the perfect addition for a Leeds side who narrowly missed out on the play-offs thanks to a lack of cutting edge and alternative goal threats.
Yet, it appears that their old adversaries Norwich City could haunt Leeds once again. The Eastern Daily Press report that The Canaries are closing in on what is certain to be one of the summer’s most impressive deals.
Deja Vu
Director of Football Stuart Webber is planning a major overhaul of Norwich’s underachieving squad after they two failed to make it into the top six this season. And nabbing Watkins on a free is exactly the reason why the Anglian club were so keen to appoint Huddersfield’s former transfer guru.
Yet, news that Leeds may miss out on a genuine difference maker won’t go down well at Elland Road. Particularly as Norwich have frustrated them plenty of times before in the transfer market.
After all, The Canaries have stolen fan favourites Bradley Johnson, Luciano Becchio, Robert Snodgrass and influential, local-lad captain Johnny Howson (below) from Elland Road in recent years. They were also reportedly interested in snaring manager Garry Monk this summer too.
Therefore, securing Watkins from under Leeds’ nose will not pacify the bad blood between these Championship rivals.
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