Cambridge United sign former Norwich City, Swansea City, Bristol City and Derby County midfielder Korey Smith on a two-year contract

Korey Smith has become the eighth summer signing to arrive at Cambridge United.

The midfielder, who has penned a two-year deal at the Cledara Abbey Stadium, has joined after a 2023/24 campaign in which he helped Derby County to achieve promotion from Sky Bet League One.

The 33-year-old started his career with Norwich City before going on to have spells at Oldham Athletic, Bristol City and Swansea City. He joined Derby in the summer of 2022 and went on to make 85 appearances for the Rams in all competitions.

But now the free agent has linked up with his new U’s team-mates at their pre-season training camp in Portugal.

He said: “It all happened quite quick overnight. It got sorted at around 11pm last night and at 5am I was at the airport.

“When I went down to the training ground last week I had a really good chat with the manager. He told me the club’s ideas and plans for the future, where they saw me in that, and I felt a good connection.”

Head coach Garry Monk added: “Korey is another signing of real pedigree, having spent the vast majority of his career playing in the Championship or fighting for promotion out of League One.

“He will add quality, experience and a winner’s mentality to the team, so I am delighted to welcome him to the club.”

News of Smith’s arrival has come following the additions of Gary Gardner, Taylor Richards, Ryan Loft, Vicente Reyes, Shayne Lavery, James Gibbons and Kell Watts.