Cardiff City are working "really hard" on transfers, manager Brian Barry‑Murphy announced, as the club finalises its first summer signing. The Bluebirds have already secured goalkeeper Nathan Trott on a permanent deal after a successful loan spell, but the hunt for fresh talent continues.
Who is on the transfer radar?
Barry‑Murphy told the club website that the staff have a clear list of targets, with Norwegian midfielder Jens Hjerto‑Dahl leading the pack. The Tromsø player has already netted seven goals and provided two assists in the current Norwegian league season, making him an attractive option for a side that needs creativity in midfield.
Why the focus on new signings now?
The club’s recent pre‑season form, a 5‑1 victory over Forest Green Rovers, shows promise, yet the squad still lacks depth. With the World Cup causing a slower summer market, Barry‑Murphy stressed the importance of patience, saying, "It just takes time. When we have news, we will tell you as soon as possible." The manager’s ambition aligns with the club’s recent statistics: a final 2025 league standing of 2nd in League One with 91 points, 27 wins, 10 draws, and 9 losses, and a goal difference of +40 after scoring 90 and conceding 50.
How will new arrivals impact the season?
Securing Trott permanently gives the Bluebirds a reliable last‑line option, while adding a goal‑scoring midfielder like Hjerto‑Dahl could boost the attack that already produced 90 goals last season. The team sits 12 points behind leaders Lincoln in the title race, and a strong recruitment drive could close that gap. Recent form shows a mixed bag – a 5‑4 loss to Mansfield Town on 2 May 2026 and a recent run of three wins, two losses (LLWWW) – highlighting the need for fresh impetus.
What’s next for Cardiff’s transfer strategy?
Barry‑Murphy promised that the club will keep supporters updated as negotiations progress. The ambition is clear: to deliver a side that excites fans from the first game onward. With the summer market still open, Cardiff aims to add at least one more player before the season kicks off, hoping to turn the current 12‑point deficit into a realistic title challenge.
Key takeaway: Cardiff’s transfer activity, anchored by Trott’s permanent signing and the pursuit of Hjerto‑Dahl, reflects a determined push to improve a squad already strong in attack but still chasing the league leaders.
