Newcastle and Celtic are reportedly keen on Everton midfielder James McCarthy.
Liverpool’s Adam Lallana in action with Everton’s James McCarthy
According to the Daily Mail, Everton could let midfielder James McCarthy leave the club this summer, with a host of clubs keen on landing him either on loan or permanently.
McCarthy, 25, was a major signing for Roberto Martinez back in 2013, having worked together at previous club Wigan Athletic, and he instantly became a key player at Goodison Park.
Tottenham’s Erik Lamela in action with Everton’s James McCarthy
The Republic of Ireland international earned huge praise during his first two seasons on Merseyside, with his tenacity impressing many as he formed a strong partnership in midfield with Gareth Barry.
However, last season was much tougher for McCarthy, and the departure of former boss Martinez means that he’s now trying to impress new boss Ronald Koeman – and that’s a task he may be struggling with so far.
Everton’s James McCarthy and Bournemouth’s Glenn Murray
The Daily Mail report that Koeman prefers a midfield partnership of Barry and new signing Idrissa Gueye, whilst McCarthy was hauled off after just 38 minutes against West Brom on Saturday as Koeman looked for a tactical switch.
The report adds that Everton have discussed a deal to sign Newcastle midfielder Moussa Sissoko, which would push McCarthy further down the pecking order, with clubs lining up to sign him.
It’s stated that Sunderland would demand McCarthy in part-exchange for defender Lamine Kone, whilst Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez would be keen on signing McCarthy in some sort of swap deal for French Euro 2016 ace Sissoko.
Tottenham’s Danny Rose in action with Everton’s James McCarthy
Elsewhere, Aston Villa and Watford are keen on loan moves for McCarthy, as are Celtic and their manager Brendan Rodgers, who have made big additions already this summer in Kolo Toure and Scott Sinclair.
Whether on loan or in a permanent deal, clubs are looking to take McCarthy away from Goodison Park, and his situation is one to keep an eye on ahead of next week’s transfer deadline.
Would you like to see Everton keep or sell McCarthy?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
