The Canaries made contact with the Blues yesterday before tabling an improved bid for the 24-year-old.

It is expected that Football League One side Stockport will renew their efforts to sign the Northern Ireland international by increasing their initial £100,000 offer, but Norwich appear to be in pole position as the race for Thompson gathers pace.

Linfield's board has insisted no deal – if any – will be completed until after tonight's massive Champions League clash with Dinamo Zagreb.

Thompson (right) is expected to play against the Croatians, contrary to reports that he would sit out the first qualifying round, first leg fixture at Windsor Park.

It has been a rollercoaster fortnight for the predatory striker.

Scottish Premier League club Kilmarnock were first to make their move – twice having package deals in the region of £150,000 turned down.

Then came the approach by Stockport on Monday with an offer of £100,000 plus bonuses for the prized frontman.

But now Championship outfit Norwich are poised to pounce, and a deal could be rubber stamped in the next 24 hours.

Glenn Roeder was reportedly on his way to Belfast to watch Thompson in action, but it is believed the Canaries boss will travel with his squad for a pre-season friendly in Gorleson instead.

Thompson appeared to be on his way to Stockport on Tuesday after Blues boss Jeffrey admitted talks were at an advanced stage.

But Linfield's board insisted on Tuesday no deal would be completed before Wednesday's game.

In a statement, the club said: "No transfer deal has been completed for Peter Thompson and any possible move will not be considered until the Linfield management meets to discuss the matter after Wednesday's game with Zagreb.

"Peter Thompson is a signed and registered Linfield player who is available to play in Wednesday's European game.

"It has been made clear that any decision on the player's transfer will be taken with full approval of the board."