LIVERPOOL and Manchester United are battling it out to sign
wonderkid James McCarthy.
The Hamilton Academicals teenager was on trial at Liverpool last
week and they are favourites for his signature.
But it is understood that United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is eager to
beat their arch rivals to sign the attacking midfielder.
McCarthy, 16, is one of the brightest talents in Scotland. Hamilton
handed him his debut this season at just 15 and a host of clubs
have sent scouts to watch him
Prior to his time with Liverpool, McCarthy was offered trials by
some of Spain's leading sides, including Deportivo La Coruna.
But Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is desperate to conclude a deal
immediately and is ready to hand Hamilton a compensation package of
£100,000.
Liverpool are in talks with the Scottish Division One side but
Ferguson is now ready to hijack the deal.
