Dean Smith has offered an update on the future of Christoph Zimmermann amid speculation linking him with a move away from Norwich City.

The German is reportedly a transfer target for Bundesliga 2 outfit SV Darmstadt.

The 29-year old has been with Norwich since 2017, signing from Borussia Dortmund’s second team.

In his time with the Canaries, he has helped the team earn two promotions to the Premier League under Daniel Farke.

However, since the appointment of Smith late last year, he has fallen down the pecking order at Carrow Road, with an ankle injury significantly halting his progress in the side.

The Norwich boss’ latest comments also suggest that an exit is now inevitable, with the club opting not to stand in the defender’s way should he pursue a move back to his native Germany.

“As everyone knows, Norwich means an awful lot to Zimbo and Zimbo means an awful lot to Norwich,” said Smith, via the club’s official website.

“He’s got an opportunity and we felt it would be wrong not to let him speak to them. If he goes there he goes with our best wishes. 

“He’s not got the minutes he would have liked over the last 18 months but he goes with our blessing if he does go because he’s been a magnificent player and person at this club.”

 

 

Norwich are once again preparing for life in the Championship following the team’s relegation from the Premier League last season.

The new campaign gets underway later this month, with Smith’s side kicking off the new term with a visit to face Cardiff City on July 30.

The Verdict

Zimmermann has had a great stint at Norwich and was, at one point, an integral part of the team.

However, now does seem an appropriate time for him to depart the club especially given the interest from Germany.

Smith is looking to rebuild the team with his first summer in charge of the squad, and this is an ideal parting of ways.

This should also be a good way for the club to open up some funds through a player sale, which can be used to help strengthen the first team.