CLITHEROE keeper Carlo Nash is set to sign for First Division Crystal Palace in a £35,000 move that will shatter the Shawbridge record.

And Blues chairman Steve Rush has wisely ensured there are safeguards built in to bring Clitheroe more cash if the keeper makes the grade and subsequently moves on.

Several clubs, including Burnley, Manchester City and Nottingham Forest, have watched the 23-year-old this season, but Palace were the only club to make an offer.

His ambitions of full-time football will now be fulfilled, providing he passes the usual medical tests.

Clitheroe chairman Steve Rush revealed today: "Crystal Palace were in touch last week, Carlo went there and he has agreed personal terms.

"All sorts of rumours were flying around so, even though we wanted to wait until everything was signed and sealed, we felt we had to set the record straight.

"I must stress that it is still subject to the medical but we are happy for the lad, even though we have lost a fine player. I was very impressed by Palace, one of the few clubs to put their money where their mouth is."

If it goes through, Clitheroe will pick up £35,000 plus £10,000 if Nash plays 10 first team games and 10 per cent of any sell-on fee.

It will help with more ground redevelopment.

Previous transfer record was the £9,000 paid by Southport for John Penman.

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