Marley Watkins: Norwich City make former Barnsley winger their first summer signing

Norwich City have beaten a host of clubs to sign former Barnsley winger Marley Watkins on a free transfer.

The likes of Aston Villa, Burnley and Wolves were all reportedly interested in the 26-year-old, while Ipswich Town manager Mick McCarthy has previously talked about his admiration for the player.

However, East Anglian rivals Norwich have won the race for his signature with the former Swansea City trainee agreeing a three-year contract at Carrow Road.

Watkins, who can play on either wing or through the middle, turned down the offer of a new deal at Oakwell and recently earned his first call-up to the Welsh squad.

He becomes Norwich's first capture of the summer and the first arrival of the Daniel Farke era.

"Marley played brilliantly last season and is proven at this level," Farke said.

"He scored ten goals and got nine assists, and can play either as a forward or on the wing. He’s physical and a good character who gives us another option in attack.

"I’m really looking forward to working with him."