Liverpool in race to sign Poborsky

LIVERPOOL and Manchester United are in danger of being, drawn into an auction for £3.4 million-rated Czech Republic player Karel Poborsky.

Another round of talks is scheduled to take place today as the race hots up for the 24-year-old Slavia Prague midfielder, who played a crucial role in his country's march, to the final of Euro '96.

Slavia manager Jaromir Seterle released details yesterday of forthcoming visits to the Czech capital by the north-west neighbours, who fought it out in the English FA Cup final in May.

He said he will be meeting Liverpool officials today and a Manchester United delegation tomorrow.

Seterle indicated a decision on Poborsky's future could be made by the end of the week.

Slavia are in no hurry to part with player, who still has two years of his contract to run, as they finalise their preparations for a European Cup campaign. However, money talks, especially in the Czech Republic, and it is understood Poborsky, who has also been linked with Sheffield Wednesday, will leave.

United have been favourites to snap him up, but Anfield officials made a surprise dash to Prague on Sunday in a bold bid to try and win the race.

Old Trafford legal director Maurice Watkins flew home on Saturday fully expecting to conclude a deal this week. But, no sooner had he departed the Czech capital, than Liverpool arrived on the scene.

Liverpool manager Roy Evans last week tried to tie up a deal for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Patrik Berger, another Czech star of Euro '96. His first offer was rejected and it now appears he has turned his attention to Poborsky.