Justin von der Hitz Picks Nürnberg Over Top Clubs in Big Summer Move

Top young defender Justin von der Hitz will leave FC Köln to join 1. FC Nürnberg on a four-year deal. The U17 World Cup winner was chased by several German sides including Bayern Munich and Schalke, but has opted for Nürnberg amid their determination, and the influence of club legend Miro Klose, who is part of their support staff.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Von der Hitz, 18, will swap FC Köln for Nürnberg once the season concludes. His development has stalled slightly since the U17 World Cup with Germany last year and he is now determined to find regular senior football. He featured prominently for Köln’s U19 team this term, playing 28 times in the youth league and cup competitions, but he has played only five times for Köln’s second team in the Regionalliga and made a single appearance for the senior team in a friendly last month.

Nürnberg have presented von der Hitz with a clear career pathway as they look to battle for promotion next season. Instead of making further effort to break into Köln’s senior team, he has decided that a move north is the best option for him in order to maximise his potential.

WHY DID NÜRNBERG WIN THE RACE?

Nürnberg coach Klose has played a huge role in this transfer awaking as he is said to have personally convinced von der Hitz that joining his team is the right decision. They were able to convince him before Bayern’s efforts became more serious, while he also turned down Schalke, who attempted to entice him to Gelsenkirchen. Nürnberg have made it a big part of their transfer strategy to attract some of the best young German talent and von der Hitz will be yet another feather in their cap.

WHAT NEXT?

This transfer should be completed officially next week so that von der Hitz can join Nürnberg for preseason. Currently involved in mid-table action in the 2. Bundesliga, Klose’s team aspire to challenge for promotion next season. The addition of von der Hitz from FC Köln makes them stronger in the rearguard.