Striker, Ashley Barnes has signed for Norwich City on a free transfer from Burnley on 1 July.
Barnes’ free transfer to Norwich will become official on 1 July once his current contract at Burnley expires a day earlier on 30 June, having scored 54 goals in 294 appearances for the Clarets since he joined in January 2014 from Brighton & Hove Albion.
Throughout his time at Turf Moor, Barnes has helped the Clarets to three promotions to the Premier League, of which the latter two promotions came in 2015-16 and 22-23 seasons after suffering relegation from the top-flight in the two previous seasons respectively.
Barnes also scored one goal in five appearances as Burnley featured in the Qualifying stages of 2018-19 UEFA Europa League, having finished seventh the previous season.
Feeling “delighted” to have signed his contract at Norwich after almost a decade with Burnley, Barnes explained the reason behind his move to Carrow Road as he commented: “I think the ambition to get back into the Premier League was the main thing.
“The conversations I had (with Stuart Webber and David Wagner) were brilliant, they showed me how they wanted me to play and how they want me to fit in to the group and I’m happy to totally push us forward and try to get us promoted next season.”
Norwich’s Head Coach, David Wagner added that he is “delighted” to sign the experienced 33 year-old striker, who knows what is required to enjoy second-tier success in English Football.
Wagner also praised Barnes for sharing the same passion to see Norwich progress amidst tough competition for his services, as he said: “It was very clear from our conversations that he has a real hunger and desire to continue to perform at the highest level.
“It was a feeling that we both have, the determination to do whatever it takes to win football games.
“There was a lot of competition for his signature, which says a lot about how he is respected and valued in the game.”
Barnes meanwhile issued a farewell statement to Burnley supporters in which he said: “It’s been an absolute privilege to play for Burnley Football Club for almost a decade. Playing in the Premier League was an ambition fulfilled and to do so with Burnley was an honour.”
He also acknowledged this season’s ” success under Vincent Kompany during which the club won promotion as champions of the Sky Bet Championship, plus reached the last eight of the FA Cup where they were beaten at Manchester City as he described the camapign as “fantastic!”
The 33 year-old finally paid tribute to everyone who had supported him throughout his time at Turf Moor, as he concluded: “I’ve made friends for life at Burnley – thank you to every single one of you who have helped me along the way, Sean, Vinny, the people behind the scenes, the loyal fans and my family.
“I couldn’t have done this without your help. Burnley – you will always have a huge part in our heart.”
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