Oliver Norwood wants to stay at Fulham on a permanent basis after helping the Whites secure promotion to the Premier League during his successful loan spell.
The Northern Ireland international, who had previously helped Brighton and Hove Albion reach the top flight, is eager to remain with Slavisa Jokanovic’s side following their Wembley win over Aston Villa in the Championship play-off final. Fulham could well be keen to sign Norwood outright as well, having made an approach to sign the former Manchester United midfielder on a permanent basis back in January. That enquiry was rebuffed by Albion as they were yet to secure their Premier League safety, but Chris Hughton could be willing to entertain offers over the course of the summer.
The 27 year old, who made 41 appearances for Jokanovic’s side including coming on as a substitute as ten-man Fulham clung onto the lead given to them by Tom Cairney in the play-off final, told Football.London that he’s keen to stay at Craven Cottage:
That’s the plan. Hopefully, it can get sorted as soon as possible, I’ll be patient but hopefully we can get it done. It’s a squad game, but to get promoted twice in two seasons I must be doing something right. To be honest, this is the best side I’ve played in by quite a long way.
The possibility of a deal being reached may hinge on Brighton’s valuation of their midfielder and whether Fulham, who have been linked with an ambitious move for Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere, have other targets in mind now that they are planning for life in the top flight. Norwood’s versatility – having deputised for Kevin McDonald, Stefan Johansen and Cairney during the course of the season – and his range of passing could make him a useful addition at the right price.
