The Vancouver Whitecaps are poised to lose another key piece of their attacking core, as reports confirm winger Ali Ahmed is finalizing a move to England's Norwich City.
Details of the Deal
According to reports from TSN and the local Norwich news outlet Pink Un, the transfer is imminent. The deal, first reported on Saturday, will see the 25-year-old Canadian international join the English Championship club for a fee reported to be more than $3 million. Norwich City, currently battling to avoid relegation, is seeking Ahmed's pace and creativity to bolster their left wing.
This move follows a pattern for the Whitecaps, coming just a month after fellow Canadian national team winger Jayden Nelson was traded to Austin FC. Nelson's move was motivated by a desire for more playing time ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Impact on the Whitecaps
Ahmed's departure is a significant blow to Vancouver's squad, even if it was anticipated. The player had scored four goals and provided 13 assists last season, reaching his peak form. His ambition to play in Europe was well-known, with German clubs expressing interest as recently as last summer.
Whitecaps CEO Axel Schuster had previously acknowledged the challenge of retaining domestic talent like Ahmed within MLS's salary cap structure. "He knew keeping Ahmed long term would mean he'd have to make other decisions in his squad," the article noted. Ultimately, the combination of a substantial raise and the European opportunity proved decisive for the player.
Looking Ahead for Vancouver
With Ahmed's exit, the Whitecaps must now reconfigure their attack. Ryan Gauld, once fully fit, is expected to absorb the bulk of the minutes, either on the left wing or in a reshaped formation. Youngster Kenji Cabrera is also slated for an increased role in the 2026 season.
Schuster indicated last month that the club was already in the market for another midfielder, a search that will undoubtedly intensify following this transfer. Ahmed was one of six Whitecaps players to receive written offers this offseason, suggesting more roster changes could be on the horizon for the MLS side.
The transfer underscores the ongoing challenge for MLS clubs in retaining top domestic players as they enter their prime, often outpaced by the financial and competitive allure of European leagues.
