Manchester United are stepping up their interest in Albion goalkeeper and the player's advisors are optimistic a £3 million deal will tempt Albion to part with the Polish international.

Sources close to the player confirmed that talks have taken place - although Albion maintain all is quiet in that respect - and a deal could be closed within the next 48 hours.

Gary Megson bought Kuszczak to the club from Hertha Berlin in 2004 on a free transfer and that fee would represent a big profit for Albion.

The wheels are in motion to try and replace Kuszczak and Liverpool's Scott Carson is on their list of possible replacements.

The 24-year-old Poland international was one of Albion's success stories last season as his inspirational form ensured Chris Kirkland was left on the bench.

A move to Old Trafford would obviously appeal to Kuszczak, however.

Initial talks have suggested that the Red Devils would at least double Kuszczak's basic salary and enable him to battle with Edwin van der Sar for the first team jersey.

Further talks are expected today but the clubs are inching closer and Kuszczak could be the first player to leave The Hawthorns following their relegation.

It would be the perfect opportunity for Kuszczak to maintain his international profile after a blunder which cost Poland a goal against Colombia in May. Yet his form for Albion last term was excellent and Sir Alex Ferguson has been monitoring him ever since May 2005.

That was when Kuszczak came off the bench to repel all that Manchester United had to offer and procure a precious point for Albion in their successful relegation battle.