The support of Norwich City fans to guide the Canaries into a new era has “humbled” Mark Attanasio, who also stated that money is available for the January transfer window.
For the first time since Norfolk Holdings de facto took over the club, the American entrepreneur attended the annual shareholders’ meeting on Wednesday night.
Ordinary shareholders recently approved the £58 million debt-to-equity plan that Attanasio’s company had agreed upon with former majority owners Delia Smith and Michael Wynn Jones.
During his current trip to Norfolk, the major owner of the Milwaukee Brewers disclosed that he had spoken with sporting director Ben Knapper about January transfer plans.
“There is money in the January budget,” he declared. “We must adhere to Ben’s suggestions and maintain the profit and sustainability guidelines. We spoke about it again in a board meeting after my son and I met with him and Neil (Adams) for two hours on Tuesday.
What Ben wants to undertake in January, in my opinion, is completely in line with our available funds.
“I express my gratitude to each and every shareholder. The fact that 99pc support was available for this procedure made me very happy. It’s really humble. In addition to their faith in me, Delia and Michael went above and beyond to welcome me into the club and give it to me in a selfless way. I use the word “steward,” while they use “custodian.”
“Delia, Michael, and other supports are the constants, but eventually there will be another carer.
“Back in 2005, I made four promises when I purchased the Milwaukee Brewers. Having a consistently competitive squad, offering an amazing fan experience, being a terrific place to work, and serving as the club’s community focal point were the first four goals. I’ll promise to provide the fans the best.
Ahead of the January transfer window, Sporting director Knapper stated on Wednesday night that he and Attanasio are in agreement to help Johannes Hoff Thorup’s injury-plagued team.
Knapper stated that talks are ongoing with Borja Sainz’s agents on a longer-term Carrow Road deal. “Mark and I have discussed this situation and if opportunities present themselves that align with our strategy we will be alive to them,” Knapper added. However, January markets are often reactionary, so we won’t jump into anything that doesn’t fit with our medium- to long-term plan.
One small bright spot regarding our current injuries, in my opinion, is that none of them are permanent. By January, we anticipate having them all back. Naturally, we have no idea what will occur between now and then, but we will review it.”
In his opening remarks, director Tom Smith led the meeting’s shareholders in applauding Smith and Wynn Jones for their combined more than 50 years of service to the club.
Later, executive director Zoe Webber said that negotiations are ongoing to commemorate their thirty years as club leaders.
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