Norwood Offer Accepted

Barnsley have today been granted permission to speak with midfielder Oliver Norwood. I am informed that a bid of around £400,000 has been accepted by Manchester United for the talented young midfield player.

Reds boss Keith Hill has been chasing Norwood throughout the close season and now looks close to signing him if terms can be agreed.

United rejected an initial bid of £200,000 but the club doubled their offer and now it looks like it will come down to a straight fight between Barnsley and local neighbours Huddersfield for the 21 year old`s signature.

Although newly promoted, Huddersfield may be able to offer more in wages for the services of Norwood and it may come down to Hill selling his vision of how to take the club forward if Norwood is to Choose Barnsley.

Norwood, who has represented England at Under 17 level and Northern Ireland at U19, U21, B and senior level enjoyed a productive campaign with Coventry City last season, impressing in his 18 appearances despite Coventry slipping into League One.

Coventry boss Andy Thorn was hoping to tempt Norwood to remain in the Midlands, but it is believed the six cap Northern Irish international wants to further his career in the Championship.

Hill admitted to local press at the start of the week that he had begun contract discussions with an unnamed player but at the moment they were "a million miles away" from an agreement. That player is now believed to be Norwood.

Hill is keen to have him signed before the club jet off on a pre-season trip to Spain on the 8th July.

Norwood would be another good capture for the reds and continue the new ambitious outlook in the transfer market.

If he does sign there looks likely to be strong competition for places in the midfield area. Particularly if Jacob Butterfield also decides to stay. These signings should also put a stop to the rumours of a Brian Howard return.

I see an exciting season in prospect if these potential deals go through but would still like to see a centre back, back up goalkeeper and another striker come through the door as well.



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