‘We fought off really stiff competition,’ Stuart Webber on Norwich City’s new signing Marley Watkins

Marley Watkins fits the bill for the Canaries, admits sporting director Stuart Webber.

The 26-year-old attacker will officially join Daniel Farke’s revolution next month when his Barnsley contract expires after agreeing a three-year deal, with the option of a further year.

Watkins is currently with the Welsh squad after being called up for the first time for next week’s World Cup qualifer in Serbia.

“It’s a signing which epitomises what we’re now trying to do,” said Webber, speaking to the club’s official website. “Marley is unbelievably fit and unbelievably hard-working as well. He’s someone who can play wide, as well as through the middle.

“We’ve spoken about needing different types of players in the forward areas, so Marley very much fits into what we wanted.

“Having just been called up to the national team for the first time, it shows it’s not just us recognising his talents. We fought off really stiff competition to bring him here so I’m delighted. He scores all types of goals and is tactically very good. We’re really pleased to have got the deal over the line and are looking forward to working with him.”

Watkins, speaking to BBC Wales, is keen to make a strong impression on Chris Coleman.

“It’s been a long journey but I always told myself to never give up,” he said. “No matter how hard it got, I wanted to aim as high as possible. I kept working hard and over time I feel it’s paid off.

“It will be a great experience to play with top players like Aaron Ramsey and that can only benefit your game. Hopefully I can become a regular part of it.”