The 206cm 21-year-old has played only 21 games of AFL football, but the scrutiny surrounding his future has been intense since he stated his desire to return Victoria earlier in the week.
Melbourne – where Warnock's brother Matthew plays -- and Richmond are other clubs reportedly interested in the young tall.
But Warnock's manager, Colin Young, is believed to have informed Carlton football manager Steven Icke on Thursday that his client had chosen the Blues.
Reports indicate the ruckman could earn in the vicinity of $1m for a three-year deal at Princes Park, but Carlton chief executive Greg Swann said Warnock's desire to join the club was not about the figures alone.
"I believe his decision to want to join us was not about the money, but more about getting a better opportunity to play on a regular basis and having more game time," Swann said.
The trade will be dependent on Carlton satisfying Fremantle with a suitable deal, otherwise Warnock could end up in December's pre-season draft in which the Demons have the first pick.
