NORWICH City are attempting to snatch Jimmy Bullard from under the noses of arch rivals Ipswich, it has been claimed.

National newspapers have linked the playmaker with a move to East Anglia – but to newly-promoted Norwich.

The news will be a devastating blow to Town fans who hoped Bullard would extend his stay at Portman Road after impressing all during his four-month loan spell last season.

The mercurial midfielder made 16 starts and scored five goals before rounding off a fine stay by picking up the Supporters Player of the Year trophy.

Perversely, many privately fear that Bullard’s impressive form, and run of games without injury, could actually attract a Premier League side, especially after his parent club Hull City said they were looking to offload the 32-year-old.

Bullard himself had claimed he would love a deal to be struck with Town but his much-publicised wages were an obvious stumbling block.

QPR were said to be interested in taking a chance on him, but now it has been reported that fellow promoted side Norwich might be about to launch a bid.

City boss Paul Lambert yesterday signed a new contract at the club and it has been claimed Bullard, and Everton striker James Vaughan, are among his targets.

The Scot is said to want British players with Premier League experience to boost his existing squad and Bullard would fit that bill having flourished at Fulham before his ill-fated move to Hull.

And the midfielder might understandably fancy one more crack at the Premier League regardless of how his army of fans at Portman Road might react to him playing for their bitter rivals.