How much more money Marcelino Nunez earns at Ipswich Town compared to Norwich City | OneFootball

The Chilean has received a pay rise from his controversial move across East Anglia

When Ipswich Town completed the surprise signing of Chilean international Marcelino Nunez from Norwich City this summer, the shockwaves rippled far beyond East Anglia.

Not only did the £10 million transfer reignite one of English football’s fiercest rivalries on a new front, but it also marked the first direct switch between the two clubs since goalkeeper Andy Marshall made the same move in 2001.

For Nunez, the move did not only represent a fresh chapter in his career; it also came with a considerable financial uplift.

According to estimates from Capology, Nunez's weekly wage has risen sharply following his transfer across the A140, which one would perhaps expect considering that Ipswich were only relegated from the Premier League back in May and the midfielder remained on the same contract as he penned to sign from Chilean outfit Universidad Catolica throughout his time at Norwich.

Marcelino Nunez’s pay rise from Norwich City to Ipswich Town move

At Carrow Road, Nunez earned a reported £15,000 per week per Capology’s estimates — amounting to £780,000 annually.

This figure placed him well behind some of Norwich’s top earners last season, with Shane Duffy and Jack Stacey commanding salaries in the region of £30,000 per week.

While Nunez was a key performer on the pitch, his pay packet did not reflect the very top tier of the Canaries’ wage structure.

That is no longer the case with the Tractor Boys. His new deal at Portman Road is estimated at £22,500 per week, or £1.17 million per year.

This makes him one of the highest-paid arrivals in Ipswich’s busy summer window, with fellow new permanent recruits Ashley Young, Azor Matusiwa, and Darnell Furlong earning more.

The numbers underline both the financial muscle Ipswich are prepared to flex as they push for an immediate Premier League return, and the faith the club has in Nunez’s ability to anchor their midfield in the years ahead.

With such a significant increase in wages, questions inevitably arise over whether Ipswich are getting value for money. It is still far too early to judge.

Nunez has had little opportunity to feature since his move. Already, however, he offered glimpses of his quality: tidy distribution, sharp chance creation, and a willingness to recover possession and contest duels.

A small sample size, yes, but one that suggested he already has the tools to thrive under McKenna.

Marcelino Nunez’s controversial Norwich City exit and Ipswich Town’s plan

Nunez’s decision to switch allegiances has already been met with anger in Norfolk.

Former teammates, including winger Onel Hernandez, have publicly criticised the move, while former Ipswich and Norwich figures have warned that the midfielder will face a hostile reception when he returns to Carrow Road in April.

Yet, from Ipswich’s perspective, the acquisition looks strategic and opportunistic. With Sam Morsy departing for Kuwait earlier in the summer, the need for a new midfield general was urgent.

Nunez, with over 100 Championship appearances, international pedigree, and an eye for set pieces, fits the profile.

His decision to sign a four-year deal also signals long-term commitment, a reassurance for Ipswich supporters keen to see their club bounce back after relegation.

Financially, the move represents a clear upgrade for Nunez: a jump of £7,500 per week and close to £400,000 annually.

Professionally, it places him at the heart of an ambitious project, one where his contributions could prove pivotal in a promotion race.