Hughton set for two more signings

16 August 2012 15:47

Norwich manager Chris Hughton has confirmed the club are hopeful of signing defender Javier Garrido from Lazio and have been scouting Blackburn goalkeeper Mark Bunn.

Hughton took over from Paul Lambert when he headed for Aston Villa after three hugely successful seasons at Carrow Road, which culminated in a 12th-placed finish last term.

"We have a responsibility to make sure we have as competitive a squad as possible," said Hughton.

The former Birmingham boss has been quick to tie up new deals for goalkeeper John Ruddy, who made his England debut against Italy in Berne on Wednesday night, and striker Grant Holt, who handed in a transfer request at the end of last season.

Norwich have also brought in former Rangers defender Steven Whittaker, Jacob Butterfield, Michael Turner and Robert Snodgrass to bolster the squad for what is expected to be a testing Barclays Premier League campaign.

Hughton revealed those efforts will continue ahead of the transfer deadline, saying: "Our endeavours are still there to strengthen the squad if we can, if it is right for the club, and that will continue through to the end of the month."

Former Manchester City left-back Garrido, 27, is expected to shortly join up with the Canaries, probably on a season loan for the Spaniard.

"Speculation sometimes gets out, but yes there has been some contact between the clubs," said Hughton. "We always make sure when there is an announcement to be made, it will be done at the right time. There has, though, been some communication between the two clubs and he is a player we do like. When there is something concrete and official to be said, we will."

Celtic's Honduran left-back Emilio Izaguirre has also been linked with Norwich, but his price tag of £5million could well be too high for the Canaries. Hughton, though, confirmed Norwich had been looking at possible back-up for Ruddy, with youngsters Jed Steer and Declan Rudd the other keepers.

"There are enquires which have been made, but it is just enquiries," said Hughton. "We have made them for numerous players and have a scouting network watching a lot of players."

Source: PA