Norwich City have officially signed Ali Ahmed, the 25-year-old winger from Major League Soccer’s Vancouver Whitecaps, in a move that marks the club’s first transfer under new head coach Philippe Clement. The fee for the transfer has not been disclosed.

Ahmed, a Canada international, joins Norwich City on a three-and-a-half-year deal with the option of an additional year. He has made over 100 appearances for the Whitecaps and scored in the 2025 MLS Cup final, a 3-1 defeat to Inter Miami, owned by Sir David Beckham.

Ahmed’s Ambition: From Canada to English Football

Speaking to the Norwich City official website, Ahmed expressed his excitement about joining English football:

“For most of us Canadians, English football—whether it’s the Premier League or Championship—is the first league you watch growing up as a kid. That’s why I’m excited to get over here and get a taste of that.”

Since making his international debut in 2023, Ahmed has earned 22 caps for Canada and is targeting inclusion in the 2026 World Cup squad, which Canada will co-host alongside the United States and Mexico.

Norwich Sporting Director on Ahmed Signing

Norwich sporting director Ben Knapper highlighted Ahmed’s potential impact:

“He will add pace and threat in wide areas for us, and he still has a lot of potential for further development and growth in his game. Ali showed a real desire to make this move happen, and we’re pleased we could get the deal done early in the January window.”

The Canaries are currently 22nd in the Championship following a 2-0 home defeat to Stoke City on Sunday. The club has also allowed Finley Welch, Harry Brooke, and Hugo Valencia Gomez to leave by mutual agreement. Welch made a single first-team appearance as a substitute in March 2024 against Middlesbrough.

Expert Analysis: What Ahmed Brings to Norwich

Simeon Jackson, former Norwich and Canada player, analyzed Ahmed’s potential impact for BBC Radio Norfolk:

“He plays on the left and looks to go past players. We’ll probably use him in that capacity, but he can also play in midfield. He offers something different, and I’m delighted for him. Hopefully, he hits the ground running and can help the squad. Every player dreams of England, the Championship, or the Premier League—it’s always an exciting step.”

Ahmed’s arrival is expected to provide Norwich with additional attacking options as the club seeks to improve its Championship standings in the second half of the season.