Blackburn have emerged as favourites to sign Liverpool keeper Scott Carson after reportedly accepting a bid for Brad Friedel from Aston Villa.Carson, who spent last season on loan at Villa Park, is heading for the Anfield exit door this summer as he no longer figures in Rafael Benitez's plans.

But the 22-year-old's destination is shrouded in mystery, with several clubs in the race to recruit him.

Carson spent the day at the Britannia Stadium earlier this week after Premier League new boys Stoke had a bid of £4million accepted by the Reds.

But the England stopper is also believed to have held talks with West Brom, who were tipped to be front of the queue before Rovers entered the frame.

Blackburn boss Paul Ince has accepted a £2.5million bid from Villa for USA giant Friedel, according to The Guardian, and sees Carson as the American's long-term successor at Ewood Park.

However, Ince may face further competition as Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate has also been alerted to Carson's availability - and is pondering an offer having seen Mark Schwarzer leave to join Fulham this summer.

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