Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp had made a back-up option for Andrew Robertson one of his main priorities in the transfer window.
And Lewis was picked out as a player with the profile they were looking for.
A £10million bid was made for Lewis but swiftly rejected by the Canaries, who wanted more money for the defender.
However, instead of returning with a fresh proposal, Liverpool approached Olympiacos for Kostas Tsimikas.
Norwich City defender Jamal Lewis (Image: GETTY)
Tsimikas had also been presented as an option to Klopp and this time Liverpool got their man with the Greek international's transfer being confirmed on Monday.
Having begun to think about playing for Liverpool, Lewis is now gearing up for pre-season with Norwich.
According to the Eastern Daily Press, the feeling at Carrow Road is one of 'disrespect' at how Liverpool conducted themselves.
And the report says Norwich and Lewis were left surprised by Liverpool's 'modest' offer for him.
Kostas Tsimikas has become Liverpool's first signing of the summer. (Image: GETTY)
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Meanwhile, Tsimikas' move to Liverpool has been given the seal of approval by former player Pedro Chirivella.
Chirivella spent the 2017-18 season on at Eredivisie side Willem II where Tsimikas was also brought in on loan.
"We used to hang out a lot after training and it's a friend that I will take for life," the Spaniard told Liverpoolfc.com. "I'm very happy.
"I texted him yesterday, the first thing I did was congratulate him and his family. I know he was waiting for an opportunity like this for a long time and finally he got it, so I'm very happy.
"I remember he grew up a lot [at Willem II]. That year was crucial for him.
"We had similar seasons, we were both on loan from big clubs and we performed very well. It was a very good step for Kostas.
"I know when I was there at Willem II, [people] from Liverpool came to watch Willem II and they were looking at him as well because he was the standout player for the team.
"The first week of training I could see he could get to the top. Very, very talented. He likes to get forward a lot and also he has a special mentality.
"He's a real winner and he doesn't care who is the winger facing him because he's going to be at his best. When you have a mentality like that, it's easier to perform.
"One of the features of his character is that he's a winner, he's got a good mentality and he's a fighter. The harder the game was, the better he performed."