These 3 goalkeepers would be perfect replacements for Angus Gunn
Norwich City Set to Usher in New Goalkeeping Era
Norwich City are preparing for a major reshuffle in the goalkeeping department this summer, marking the beginning of a new era between the posts.
With long-time number one Angus Gunn departing the club and Daniel Grimshaw arriving from Plymouth Argyle last week, change is already in motion.
Grimshaw is expected to play a backup role under new head coach Liam Manning, especially with George Long having fallen out of favour at the end of last season.
Long is likely to move on, and young Chilean keeper Vicente Reyes is also set for another loan to continue his development.
Still, the key question remains: who will replace Gunn as the Canaries’ new starting goalkeeper?
Two names have been heavily linked in recent weeks—Wigan’s Sam Tickle and Sporting CP’s Vladan Kovačević—but both pose challenges.
Sporting are reportedly open to selling Kovačević, who has fallen out of favour and was loaned to Legia Warsaw in February, though competition from other Championship clubs could complicate matters.
As for Tickle, Norwich would need to put forward a significant offer to tempt Wigan to part with their standout talent.
Three Ideal Candidates to Succeed Angus Gunn
Sam Tickle (Wigan Athletic)
Tickle stands out as a top contender. At just 23, he had an outstanding campaign in League One, recording 18 clean sheets and conceding only 42 goals. His performances earned him a place in the League One Team of the Season, a testament to his consistency despite Wigan’s mid-table finish.
A product of Wigan’s academy, Tickle also made his debut for England’s U21s in March, showcasing his growing reputation. While he won’t come cheap, Norwich’s increased financial flexibility under American owner Mark Attanasio makes a move feasible. For a long-term solution in goal, Tickle could be worth the investment.
Viktor Johansson (Stoke City)
The ideal time to sign Johansson may have passed—Stoke snapped him up after Rotherham’s relegation last season—but he remains one of the Championship’s most reliable shot-stoppers.
While Norwich weren’t in the market for a new goalkeeper last year due to Gunn’s strong form, Johansson’s recent displays show he could still be a major upgrade.
He has been among the league’s best in save percentage and saves per 90 minutes, often single-handedly keeping Rotherham competitive.
Although Stoke aren’t under pressure to sell, Norwich remains a more attractive project for ambitious players, especially with a push for Premier League promotion always on the agenda. If Johansson shares that ambition, a deal isn’t out of reach.
Max O’Leary (Bristol City)
O’Leary could be the most realistic and cost-effective target. A key figure in Bristol City’s rise to the play-offs, O’Leary kept double-digit clean sheets for the second consecutive season and recently made his international debut for the Republic of Ireland in a goalless draw against Luxembourg.
What makes O’Leary especially appealing is his connection to new Norwich boss Liam Manning.
If Manning was convinced enough to leave Bristol City, O’Leary might be tempted too—especially with Norwich offering the potential of higher wages and a stronger push for Premier League promotion.
Also, with just one year left on his contract, O’Leary could be available for a bargain fee, making him a smart option both financially and strategically.
The Verdict
Norwich City are clearly preparing for a goalkeeping reset, and the decision on who becomes the new number one will be pivotal.
Whether it’s investing big in Tickle, making a statement with Johansson, or playing it smart with O’Leary, the club must act decisively this summer.
If Norwich are serious about climbing back to the Premier League, the right goalkeeper could be the cornerstone of their resurgence.
