Sebastian Soto is switching sides…
The 20-year-old Chilean and Mexican American youth international soccer player has completed his move to English Championship side Norwich City, the club has revealed.
Soto arrives on a free transfer, signing a three-year deal plus an option of another year after his contract with 2.Bundesliga side Hannover 96 expired.
As Soto’s application for a work permit was denied, he’ll be forced to go out on loan for the first year of the deal, with a move to Dutch Eerste Divisie side Telstar among the possibilities.
“It’s a proud feeling. It’s super exciting to join Norwich City,” Soto said.
“The facilities here are really impressive. From the minute I arrived here, it’s given me a lot of excitement.
“Being a young player, it’s nice to hear that the head coach gives us a chance. It was a big factor in me moving here.
“I’m striker that loves scoring goals. I love being part of a good team that plays good football.”
Soto made five first team appearances for Hannover, and much was expected following an impressive set of performances for the U.S. Under-20 side at least year’s FIFA U20 World Cup.
But once it became apparent that Soto wouldn’t sign a new deal with Hannover, his place in the first team was compromised with injuries and overall competition for places also playing a part.
Norwich was recently relegated from the Premier League, but if Soto makes the most of his loan move, it could be a case of good timing.
Top scorer Teemu Pukki will be 31 by the time Soto’s presumptive loan would end, which might put the American in a better position to contend for a starting spot. The club did recently sign 23-year-old Luxembourg forward Danel Sinani.
Employment regulations will change when the UK leaves the European Union in January 2021, making it easier for Soto to get a work permit.
Soto signed with Hannover in 2018 after rising through the youth system at MLS side Real Salt Lake. He made a positive first impression at Hannover, scoring 17 goals in 24 appearances with Hannover’s U19 team during the 2018-19 season. He made his first team debut later in that campaign.