Liverpool striker Andy Carroll is expected to rejoin his teammates in Boston today, while his future at Anfield remains hanging in the balance.

The 23-year-old, who has been heavily linked with an exit from Merseyside this summer, has been absent from manager Brendan Rodgers's pre-season squad due to an extended break following the frontman's Euro 2012 excursions with England.

Carroll's former club Newcastle United have emerged as the frontrunners to take the forward back to the Sports Direct Arena but it is understood that the Reds are not prepared to allow the striker to leave on loan.

It is believed that the Magpies are willing to take Carroll on a season-long loan with a £12m option to buy following his temporary stint, according to the Northern Echo.

Carroll moved to Merseyside from the North East for £35m in January 2011.