SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY are reportedly on the verge of beating Norwich City to the signing of Scotland international Steven Fletcher. 

The 29-year-old was released by Sunderland at the end of his contract and has previously been linked with a move to Scottish champions Celtic.

However, he now appears likely to stay in England with Championship outfit Wednesday believed to be close to a deal ahead of the recently relegated Canaries.

Read more: Scotland striker Steven Fletcher released by Sunderland

The Sunderland Echo has reported that the Owls have offered a longer contract to Fletcher than Norwich, who are his other main suitors.Glasgow Times: Scotland's Steven Fletcher

Manager Carlos Carvalhal is believed to be intent on beating Alex Neil's side to Fletcher's signature as they prepare for another promotion push after losing the Championship play-off final to Hull City last season.

The former Hibernian, Wolves and Burnley forward spent the second half of the campaign on loan with French club Marseille after falling out of favour at the Stadium of Light.

He only managed to find the net three times in 16 games for the Ligue 1 outfit, after notching four Premier League goals for Sunderland before January.