The Clarets have been without a manager since parting company with Brian Laws on December 29, with Stuart Gray placed in caretaker charge for the win over Sheffield United and the defeat to Reading.

And a statement on their official website tonight read: "Burnley Football Club can confirm that tonight a formal request has been submitted to Norwich City Football Club to speak to their manager Paul Lambert.

"The club has begun the process of targeting the shortlist of candidates to fill the vacant manager's role at Turf Moor.

"And club officials have subsequently requested permission from the Norwich City board of directors to discuss the position with Lambert."

Norwich have yet to comment on the approach but are unlikely to want to lose the Scot, who has taken them from League One into the Championship play-off places.

Norwich later dismissed the approach in the strongest possible terms, stating on their website: "Under no circumstances would the club wish to grant permission."

The statement continued: "The club will fight tooth and nail to retain the services of Paul Lambert and his team during this critical period of the season and whilst they remain employed under a long-term contract.

"The club remain committed to Paul and his team in the long term and see them as a vital part of our plans."