Why Norwich City should make a move for Cardiff midfielder Will Vaulks
Back in May 2019, TEAMtalk (h/t The Eastern Daily Press) had claimed that Norwich City were among a host of English clubs interested in signing Will Vaulks, who was then plying his trade for Rotherham. However, a move to Norwich City didn’t materialise and he instead ended up signing for Cardiff City.
Despite Rotherham’s relegation to League One last summer, Will Vaulks, 26, had impressed during two years in the second tier of English football. He made 137 appearances for Rotherham in all competitions, scoring 17 goals and supplying 14 assists.
The Wales international has not enjoyed a great debut campaign with Cardiff City, finding himself on the bench for large parts. He initially struggled to make an impact but after Neil Harris replaced Neil Warnock as manager, Vaulks started the last nine games in the Championship.
Meanwhile, it has been a disastrous campaign for Norwich City, who earned their promotion just last year. The club is currently fighting for its place in the top-flight and faces a possible relegation back to the Championship.
The Canaries are rock-bottom in the table having won only five out of 29 games played so far. However, they still have nine matches to play and it remains to be seen if Daniel Farke’s side still manages to stay in the top-flight.
Regardless of what Norwich’s status is at the end of the season, Farke desperately needs to bring in some quality reinforcements to his squad. Though Farke has several options in the midfield, he needs to freshen up things.
The likes of Moritz Leitner, Mario Vrancic and Tom Trybull have played only 35 games combined in the Premier League. Alex Tettey has been a regular fixture in the midfield for Farke’s side but he is set to turn 34 next month and the Canaries must plan for his long-term replacement.
Having said that, it would make complete sense for Norwich to rekindle their interest in Will Vaulks in a bid to bolster their midfield department.
Norwich just have Tettey as the defensive midfielder in their squad. The 33-year-old hasn’t been at his best, with the side having already conceded 52 goals. The Canaries have the joint second-worst defensive record in the division and this reflects the team’s weakness in that area. Thus, landing someone of Vaulks’ quality and experience would do a world of good for Farke and the Canaries.
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Signing Vaulks would strengthen Norwich’s options in the midfield, whilst improving the squad depth. He has played close to 150 games in the Championship and League One combined, meaning the 26-year-old has a decent amount of experience in English football. Plus, the Welshman is entering the prime stages of his career and Norwich could enjoy his best years if they manage to sign him.
Verdict
Norwich are in dire need of reinforcements to their squad after an awful performance in their return to the top-flight. Therefore, they must make a prompt attempt to sign Vaulks, who has the ability and potential to succeed in the Premier League.
