Benitez signs keeper Carson

SCOTT CARSON is set to ease Rafael Benitez's goalkeeping problems by completing his move from Leeds to Liverpool today.

The 19-year-old had a medical yesterday and becomes Benitez's third signing during the January transfer window, providing personal terms are agreed.

Injury-prone Chris Kirkland struggled for form before getting sidelined with a back strain after the defeat to Everton at Goodison Park. The 23-year-old is now likely to miss the rest of the season.

Jerzy Dudek has deputised but appears short of confidence, allowing Wayne Rooney's long-range effort to beat him at home to Manchester United last weekend.

Carson's reputation as a fine goalkeeping prospect sparked interest from Chelsea, despite the England U21 international only appearing for Leeds three times.

However, he made a lasting impression deputising for Paul Robinson last season after the England number one was sent off in Leeds's 3-0 defeat to Middlesbrough.

Roman Abramovich's millions could not lure Carson to Chelsea, where he would have struggled to dislodge Petr Cech, who has been in fine form for the current league leaders, and Liverpool stepped in.

An initial bid of £250,000 was turned down a fortnight ago but it is understood the offer was increased to £750,000, with add-ons taking the sum up to the £1million mark.

Liverpool spokesman Ian Cotton confirmed: "We have agreed terms with Leeds for Scott Carson. He will undergo a medical in Liverpool and discuss personal terms with the club."

Meanwhile, Tottenham yesterday confirmed they have made a £1.5million bid for Crystal Palace winger Wayne Routledge and are trying to sign Roma striker Mido on loan.

Spurs coach Martin Jol also confirmed they had declared an interest in Chelsea striker Carlton Cole, on loan with Aston Villa.

Jol believes Egyptian striker Mido, 21, has the potential to be one of the best strikers in Europe and that his reputation for being hot-headed is unfair. According to the player's agent Mino Raiola, 15 teams are chasing the player who played against Liverpool in a fourth-round UEFA Cup tie last season when he was with Marseille.

He moved to Roma for £4.5m at the end of August but has since found his chances limited at the Italian club. Mido also spent time in Holland with Ajax.