The England international returned to the Merseyside at the end of the last season as Villa did not take the option of a permanent move. The 22-year-old has been apparently valued at £10million that has forced Villa boss Martin O%uFFFDNeill to look elsewhere with Tottenham%uFFFDs £5m-rated Paul Robinson said to be the prime target.

Nevertheless, the Potters manager Tony Pulis is looking to bring in an experienced custodian and could jump at the chance to sign Carson, who is looking to leave Anfield for regular football.