Norwich City have turned down a substantial £13.4 million bid from Major League Soccer side Toronto FC for their American striker Josh Sargent, with manager Philippe Clement issuing a firm hands-off warning. The 25-year-old USA international informed the club he was unavailable for their FA Cup tie against Walsall due to the ongoing speculation, but Clement is adamant the player is going nowhere this January.
Clement's Firm Stance on Sargent's Future
Speaking after his side's 5-1 victory over Walsall, a match Sargent missed, Clement revealed the striker had sent him a message the previous evening. The Belgian manager stated Sargent declared himself unavailable "because of transfer things that are in his head." However, Clement was unequivocal about the club's position, confirming the hierarchy's decision not to sell during this transfer window. "The club has been really clear about that so he will not leave this transfer window," Clement asserted post-match.
Despite the manager's public stance, it is understood that Sargent is keen on a return to MLS to be closer to his family. Talks between the involved parties are expected to continue this week, although Norwich currently hold a strong negotiating position with the player under a long-term contract.
Premier League and Championship Transfer Round-Up
Elsewhere in the transfer market, activity is heating up as the deadline approaches. Brentford have completed the signing of 18-year-old forward Kaye Furo from Club Brugge for a fee of £8 million, bolstering their attacking options for the future.
West Ham United are actively seeking defensive reinforcements and have made an enquiry for versatile Metz player Alpha Toure. The 19-year-old Senegal youth international, primarily a midfielder, can also provide cover at centre-back and left-back.
At Tottenham Hotspur, young forward Mathys Tel is attracting loan interest from Paris FC and several Bundesliga clubs. Despite starting in Spurs' recent match against Aston Villa, the French youth international is pushing for a move to secure more regular playing time, with an eye on earning a place in his national team's World Cup squad. Meanwhile, Tottenham are progressing in negotiations to finalise the signing of left-back Souza from Brazilian club Santos.
Other Moves Across the Football League
Sheffield United have confirmed that experienced striker Patrick Bamford has agreed to a new 18-month contract, with an option to extend, as first reported by Daily Mail Sport. The 32-year-old's deal provides stability for Chris Wilder's side.
Leeds United remain in contact regarding a potential move for Union Berlin centre-back Danilho Doekhi, whose contract expires in the summer. Berlin, anticipating a departure, have already agreed to sign defender Zeno Van Den Bosch from Royal Antwerp.
Leicester City are considering a late move for Birmingham City forward Lyndon Dykes, who is also close to agreeing a loan switch to Charlton Athletic. The Foxes are desperate to add firepower but are operating under financial constraints and may need to sell players first. A move for free agent Michail Antonio was ruled out after the former West Ham man suffered an injury in training. Leicester are prepared to listen to offers for Harry Winks and Wout Faes, with Bournemouth showing interest in Abdul Fatawu and Monaco checking on Boubakary Soumare. The club's promising academy talents, Jeremy Monga and Lorenz Hutchinson, are also drawing attention from other clubs.
