It has been conformed after many reports in the Dutch media that Norwich City striker Ricky van Wolfswinkel will be leaving on a season-long loan to La Liga side Real Betis. It will be the Dutchman’s second season-long loan in succession, with St Etienne being his previous destination.
OFICIAL | @RvWolfswinkel9 firma por el @RealBetis. Todas las novedades del cierre de mercado:http://t.co/msQHvT6fR1
— LaLiga (@LaLiga) August 31, 2015
The striker infamously scored just one goal for Norwich that season – coming against Everton at Carrow Road on the opening day – and didn’t score again at all in his inaugural Norwich City campaign. When Norwich were relegated to the Championship, he was loaned out to French side St Etienne who play in Ligue 1. There he managed 5 goals in 24 appearances. His season-long loan deal included an option to buy at the end of the season but St Etienne chose not to purchase him by activating the clause.
This summer he returned to Colney and was involved in some preseason matches, before being given a chance against Rotherham in the Capital One Cup (although this was helped by Grabban’s awol mystery). He scored ending his 2-year goal-drought.
Earlier today the striker was linked with Championship side Reading after their failure to sign Robert Beric. However, developments in his future means he is now heading off to Spain where he would play for Real Betis.
Opinion remains split on the ‘big bad wolf’, as he was again infamously branded upon arrival. Many wanted to see what Alex Neil could make of him. Others feel he is damaged goods and that he has no future here.
HIs departure could have knock-on implications as to whether the out-of-favour Gary Hooper and the disgraced Lewis Grabban leave the club.
