Norwich City sporting director Stuart Webber is close to signing a new three-year contract extension, as per reports by The Telegraph.

The publication are reporting that the 35-year-old is highly regarded in the game, and had been touted for more senior roles at other Premier League clubs.

Webber was key in reducing the club's wage bill from a mind-boggling £63m down to just a mere £25m last season.

The Norfolk side spent around £3.5m in transfer fees in the summer, with just £750,000 of that spent on the permanent transfer of Sam Byram from West Ham United.

Keeping hold of a key asset behind the scenes is a huge coup for the Canaries. Indeed, Webber's success could mean he's somewhat likely to be in demand (Manchester United were reportedly keen back in May according to the Sun), so holding on to him is crucial.

Webber's contribution to Norwich shows he has a high level of knowledge that has enabled the club to progress both on and off the pitch. His ability to slash the wage bill shows he can sell the highly-rated stars like James Maddison and Jacob Murphy while replacing them with players who still retain a high level of quality but cost less (via The Telegraph).

Players like Emiliano Buendia and Teemu Pukki joined the club for just £1.5m and on a free transfer respectively, and it's safe to say the quality they've produced.

Buendia has assisted four goals, while Pukki has scored six goals in just five top-flight games. In comparison, Maddison has just two assists this season, and Murphy has dropped down a level to the Championship, joining Sheffield Wednesday on loan from Newcastle United.

News of Webber's imminent extension can only boost Norwich's future. They have taken the approach of cutting costs and buying cheaper talent, and the strategy has worked well, showing Webber's credentials as a sporting director.

Just how big a deal could this be for Norwich? Join the discussion by commenting below...