Former Fulham boss Chris Coleman, rated a potential outsider for the Norwich City managerial vacancy, has turned down an approach from more than one English club.

Former Fulham boss Chris Coleman, rated a potential outsider for the Norwich City managerial vacancy, has turned down an approach from more than one English club.

Bolton Wanderers have asked Real Sociedad for permission to speak to Coleman, it was reported yesterday.

The ex-Wales international has been in charge of the Spanish side since June. Alan Smith, Coleman's adviser, said: “Bolton have asked Real Sociedad for permission to speak to Chris.

“It's a very interesting proposition for him to return to the Premier League, but at the same time he is happy in Spain. “We have already turned down an inquiry from another English club.”

It is not inconceivable that the Canaries could be that other club as they continue their search for a replacement for Peter Grant, who left 11 days ago by mutual consent.

Sammy Lee left Bolton “by mutual consent” on Wednesday and they named Archie Knox as caretaker manager.

The Trotters have also targeted two ex-Canaries, Birmingham manager Steve Bruce and Leicester boss Gary Megson, but both clubs have refused permission for talks.

The bookmakers' early favourite for the Norwich post, Paul Jewell, has also been linked with the job at the Reebok Stadium, five months after resigning as Wigan boss to take a break from football.

Meanwhile ex-City captain Bruce, a bookies' fancy for a Carrow Road return, has been reassured that Steve McManaman is not waiting to step into his shoes at Birmingham if Carson Yeung completes his takeover of the club.

Former England player McManaman is a director of Yeung's company Grandtop International which is expected to buy City by the new year. Bruce said: “I had a conversation with Steve McManaman this week. It was very amicable, no problems at all. I've got no problem with Steve. A big thing has been made of it in the media - but not by me.”