As a result, players on the margins of the squad, such as injured midfielder Liam Gibbs and promising prospects Gabriel Forsyth and Elliot Myles, will have to compete for a place in the first-team squad for the second consecutive preseason. The wide area is one example, with £6.9 million acquisition Mathias Kvistgaarden ready to play there, but Borja Sainz’s upcoming departure means it’s a top priority for Knapper.

At least one winger is desired, and both Liverpool’s Lewis Koumas and Metz’s Pape Diallo have been examined.

Watford’s negotiations with the latter make a deal difficult, but the Premier League loan market, where Koumas may arrive, is viewed as another option. Although the acquisitions of two wingers may still be approved, a second is dependent on Manning’s opinion.

If Myles or Forsyth, who is now viewed as a wide option, are deemed ready for duties, further additions may be unnecessary. Gibbs’ primary concern is fitness, following two seasons of hamstring injuries and setbacks. He was much appreciated by former head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup, but he faces a swollen competition this summer.

If an exit is permitted, the current expectation is that it will be on loan, with little interest in a permanent deal for the 22-year-old thus far. Centre-back Brad Hills was unlikely to make a breakthrough under Thorup, but he will get another chance to impress his new manager.

Following an outstanding loan spell at League One Stockport, he, like fellow defender Emmanuel Adegboyega, is confident of making the cut. The assumption that Manning will be replaceable in his tactical system continues at Carrow Road, implying that City must be adaptable in their squad building.

His first opportunity to witness his new charges in match action comes on Saturday, when they face Northampton Town in a behind-closed-doors friendly at the Avant Training Centre.

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