Norwich City head coach candidate Will Still has been confirmed as the new boss of Ligue 1 side RC Lens.

The 31-year-old Belgian based British boss made the final stages of the Canaries' own search to replace David Wagner, along with three others including Pascal Jansen and long time number one target Johannes Hoff Thorup.

The ex-FC Nordsjælland chief was unveiled as Wagner's replacement, with the 35-year-old later revealing to the Danish media his representatives had been in dialogue for months.

But concerns over obtaining a successful work permit during a rigorous search undertaken by sporting director Ben Knapper saw other candidates in the frame.

Still, who reportedly visited Colney, was also touted with Championship rivals Sunderland before signing a three year deal with the French top flight outfit, who finished seventh in Ligue 1 last season and will play in the Europa Conference League play-off round.

Still became the youngest coach in Europe's top five leagues when he was appointed by Reims in October 2022, but left towards the end of last season by mutual consent.

The Englishman replaces Franck Haise, who has joined Nice.

"We are delighted with the arrival of Will Still at the Racing Club de Lens. Will was our top priority to take up the position of coach and start the new cycle that is opening at the club," said Lens sporting director Pierre Dreossi to his club's official site. "Will is not only a promising coach who has broken records for precociousness, he is a unifying personality obsessed with winning.

"A true enthusiast, conqueror and fine tactician, Will Still left his mark on the Stade de Reims, where he obtained convincing results, notably a historic series of 19 matches without defeat. We are happy to welcome Will, his leadership and his communicative energy."

City's new head coach Thorup is expected to be officially unveiled later this month ahead of the start of pre-season.