Borja Sainz Set for €16.5m Move to FC Porto After Stellar Season with Norwich City

Norwich City’s summer transfer activity has taken a dramatic turn, with reports confirming that Borja Sainz, one of the club’s standout performers last season, is on the verge of completing a high-profile transfer to FC Porto. The Spanish winger, who played a crucial role in Norwich City’s campaign last season, is reportedly leaving Carrow Road for a fee in the region of €16.5 million (£14.2 million).

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, the deal between Norwich and Porto is in its final stages, with both clubs agreeing to terms. The move comes after Sainz enjoyed a spectacular season in the Championship, scoring 19 goals and providing several key assists that nearly propelled Norwich to Premier League promotion.

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Breakout Season at Norwich City

Borja Sainz arrived at Norwich City from Giresunspor in Turkey, and it didn’t take long for him to settle into English football. His pace, flair, and finishing ability quickly made him a fan favorite at Carrow Road.

During the 2024/25 season, Sainz became one of the most feared attackers in the Championship. His tally of 19 goals put him among the top scorers in the division, with many of his strikes coming at crucial moments in the season. His ability to cut inside from the wing and unleash powerful shots from distance became his trademark.

Sainz’s performances did not go unnoticed. Clubs across Europe, particularly in Spain and Portugal, began monitoring his progress. However, it was FC Porto who moved swiftly to secure his signature.

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FC Porto Move: A Big Step Forward

Joining FC Porto represents a significant step in Sainz’s career. The Portuguese giants are regular participants in the UEFA Champions League and are considered one of the biggest clubs in Europe’s top leagues. Porto are known for their excellent scouting and development of young players, often giving them the platform to move to even bigger clubs in the future.

Sainz will now have the opportunity to test himself at the highest level of European football, playing against some of the best teams and defenders in the world. The winger’s technical ability, dribbling, and knack for scoring could make him an instant success in the Primeira Liga.

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Norwich City’s Reaction and Transfer Strategy

While losing a player of Sainz’s caliber is undoubtedly a blow to Norwich, the sizeable transfer fee is expected to be reinvested into the squad. Norwich City Sporting Director Ben Knapper has already been busy in the transfer market, with reports suggesting that the club is lining up several targets to strengthen the team ahead of the new season.

One of those potential replacements is Pape Diallo from Metz, a promising winger who has also attracted interest from Watford. Norwich appear ready to outbid their rivals for Diallo’s signature, which would soften the blow of Sainz’s departure.

In addition, Norwich recently completed the signing of Mathias Kvistgaarden, a highly-rated Danish striker, from Brøndby. The club triggered his £6.9 million release clause to secure his services, showing clear intent to remain competitive despite losing one of their star players.

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A Familiar Transfer Model for Norwich

This latest deal underlines Norwich City’s well-established transfer strategy — acquiring talented players, developing them, and then selling at a profit when their value peaks.

The transfer of Borja Sainz mirrors previous deals such as those of Emiliano Buendía, James Maddison, and Ben Godfrey, who were all sold for significant fees after impressing at Carrow Road.

This model has allowed Norwich to remain financially stable while continually rebuilding their squad. The fee from the Sainz deal will provide vital funds for manager Liam Manning to bolster his options ahead of the upcoming season.

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What Next for Borja Sainz?

For Sainz, the move to FC Porto is not just about playing at a higher level; it also opens doors to international recognition. His performances in Portugal could earn him a place in the Spanish national team, where competition for wide positions remains fierce.

Moreover, with Porto often acting as a springboard for players moving to Europe’s elite clubs, Sainz could soon find himself on the radar of teams in La Liga, Serie A, or even the Premier League once again.

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Fan Reaction

Reactions among Norwich supporters have been mixed. Many fans are disappointed to lose a player who brought excitement and goals to the team, but most also recognize the financial realities of the Championship and the club’s business model.

Some fans have taken to social media to thank Sainz for his efforts, wishing him success at Porto and praising his professionalism throughout his time at Norwich.

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Conclusion

Borja Sainz’s imminent move to FC Porto marks the end of a memorable chapter at Norwich City and the beginning of an exciting new adventure for the Spanish winger. While his departure leaves a void at Carrow Road, the transfer fee ensures that Norwich City will have the resources to rebuild and challenge for promotion once again.

This transfer once again highlights Norwich’s ability to identify hidden gems and sell them at a premium — a model that continues to keep them competitive both on and off the pitch.