Duo keen on Carson

Premiership heavyweights Chelsea and Liverpool are to slug it out for the services of Leeds goalkeeper Scott Carson.

Officials from both clubs are to meet with Leeds over the next 48 hours to discuss the prospect of signing the England U21 international, who is likely to leave Elland Road for a fee of around £1million.

The 19-year-old, who is out of contract in the summer, was left bitterly disappointed by the offer from Leeds of a new two and a half year deal last month, believing the club had every intention of selling him.

That was immediately rejected and Leeds now look certain to cash in on one of their few remaining assets, with a conclusion likely to be reached by the end of the week.

The Championship club recently turned down a bid of £250,000 from Liverpool who are keen to sign Carson, with manager Rafael Benitez a known admirer, particularly with Chris Kirkland out for the rest of the season after undergoing back surgery last week.

The question is how much the Reds have left in their kitty following the capture of defender Mauricio Pellegrino from Valencia last week and with Benitez capturing Fernando Morientes from Real Madrid.

Carson is understood to prefer a move to Anfield as it is closer to his family home in Cumbria but he may find it difficult to resist the financial lure of Chelsea, who finally entered the bidding yesterday.

It is understood Jose Mourinho is prepared to offload Carlo Cudicini, either during the current transfer window or in the summer, allowing Carson to become understudy to Petr Cech.

Either move would represent a remarkable one for Carson, who only has two first-team appearances under his belt, albeit distinguishing himself against Manchester United and Chelsea last season.

But the money is crucial to Leeds' survival as the threat of administration hangs over the club before the end of this season if they are unable to find a new buyer, although it is hoped talks with Sebastien Sainsbury will progress over the next few days.