Swansea City: Move Over Darling – Harry flies off to be a Canary

There was never really any doubt that today’s news was to be confirmed at some time as Harry Darling confirmed his departure from SA1 and soon after it was reported that he had signed on the dotted line.

The clues have all been there for several months now.   A contract signed by Ben Cabango was not followed soon after by one from his defensive partner.   Stories about the contract offers being made and then of course there was the biggest clue and that was the capture of Ipswich defender Cam Burgess at the weekend.   A clear replacement for Darling coming in was the trigger that took the, now former, Swansea defender to social media earlier today to post what has become a traditional goodbye statement which always seems a bit hollow when you have allowed your contract to be run down and moved off at the offer of a better salary.

That in itself isn’t a criticism as it is only really something that any of us would do in the shoes of a professional footballer but the usual rubbish of “heavy heart” and “Always a Jack” really doesn’t mean anything for a player who barely got past one hundred appearances for the club.   A defender that did his job and moved on, that’s the reality of Harry and for that we wish him all the best.

@SwansOfficial pic.twitter.com/mrXRwT2Jx4

— Harry (@HarryDarling10) June 16, 2025

Darling now links up with Liam Manning whom he worked with at MK Dons and said “I’m delighted, it’s been a long time coming after a lot of conversations. I’m happy to finally get it sorted and I’m looking forward to getting started,” the defender told City’s channels.

“Liam being in charge, I worked with him before at MK Dons so I didn’t need convincing too much about the style of play. I really enjoyed it last time working with him.”

Stoke, Birmingham and Wrexham were also credited with interest in Darling whist a late move from former manager Russell Martin to get him to Glasgow Rangers was also a possibility but it was Norwich who won the race for his signature and he signs on a free transfer with what is believed to be a decent signing on fee.

Sporting director Ben Knapper added: “We’re absolutely thrilled to get this deal over the line. There was of course big competition for Harry’s signature, so we’re delighted to secure his services and it’s great that he sees us as the best place to commit his long-term future to.

“He’s coming into the prime years of his career, knows the league and has a lot of experience at this level. He’s a proven performer and he also has a real hunger and desire to progress, and help move our football club forward.

“Above all else, he’s also a great person, and his character and personality will be a great fit for our environment.   We’re delighted to welcome Harry and his family to Norwich City.”