Norwich City complete signing of defender Harry Darling

The Canaries have beaten a host of clubs to his signature, with the 25-year-old signing a three-year deal at Carrow Road, with the option of an additional year. The deal will be officially completed from July 1.

He becomes their third signing of the summer, following Jacob Wright and goalkeeper Daniel Grimshaw.

Birmingham, Wrexham, Stoke, Sheffield United and Rangers are all understood to have shown interest in the defender, but Norwich have beaten the competition to secure his signature.

Darling reunites with new City boss Liam Manning, who he worked under previously during his stint at MK Dons.

But while Manning's influence was a factor, City are long-term admirers of the ball-playing defender and have tracked his progress for a significant period of time.

"I'm delighted, it's been a long time coming after a lot of conversations. I'm happy to finally get it sorted and I'm looking forward to getting started," the defender told City's channels.

"Liam being in charge, I worked with him before at MK Dons so I didn't need convincing too much about the style of play. I really enjoyed it last time working with him."

Sporting director Ben Knapper added: "We're absolutely thrilled to get this deal over the line. There was of course big competition for Harry's signature, so we're delighted to secure his services and it's great that he sees us as the best place to commit his long-term future to.

"He's coming into the prime years of his career, knows the league and has a lot of experience at this level. He's a proven performer and he also has a real hunger and desire to progress, and help move our football club forward.

"Above all else, he's also a great person, and his character and personality will be a great fit for our environment.

Harry Darling has signed a three year deal at Carrow Road. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd) "We're delighted to welcome Harry and his family to Norwich City."

Darling made 47 appearances under Manning at MK Dons in the 2021/22 campaign, scoring 10 goals before moving to Swansea in 2022/23 season - where he worked with former City captain Russell Martin.

The defender completed his medical and the formalities of his move on Monday after City's lengthy and strong interest since the end of the season. He has been their top target for the centre back position.

Manning, who had an unsuccessful trial at Norwich back in 2015, began his career at hometown club Cambridge United. He made 73 appearances for the U's before moving to MK Dons under Martin.

During his time at Stadium MK, Darling was named in both the EFL League One Team of the Season and the PFA Team of the Year.

A reunion with Martin at Swansea followed, with Darling making 112 appearances during his stint in South Wales.

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