HITC Sport understands that Norwich City are preparing an offer, with Bournemouth also keen on the talented forward.

Premier League new boys Norwich City and Bournemouth are lining up a move for Middlesbrough forward Lee Tomlin, HITC Sport understands from sources close to the club.

The 26-year-old was one of the stand-out players in the Championship last season, as he played a big role in Boro’s push for promotion – which came to an end when Norwich beat them in the play-off final at Wembley.

One of Tomlin’s most impressive displays came in the end of season win at Carrow Road, and Canaries boss Alex Neill was clearly impressed.

A number of sides have expressed an interest in Tomlin, but Norwich are now understood to be lining up a firm offer for the former Peterborough United ace. They may, however, face competition from Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth, as they also ready themselves for life in the top-flight.

Middlesbrough want to keep their squad intact but – with the arrivals of Stewart Downing, Christian Stuani and Diego Fabbrini in recent weeks – they could be open to the prospect of letting Tomlin leave.

In other news, Report: Leeds now beating Italian club in the race to sign £25m star