Newcastle are reportedly ready to make their move for Everton midfielder James McCarthy.
Republic of Ireland’s James McCarthy as Italy’s Stefano Sturaro sustains an injury
According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle United are set to open the bidding for Everton midfielder James McCarthy – but Toffees boss Ronald Koeman wants a replacement before letting him go.
McCarthy, 26, was left out of Everton’s squad to face Stoke City on Saturday afternoon, with the Daily Mail claiming that he has asked to leave Goodison Park before Wednesday’s transfer deadline – though Koeman did tell the Liverpool Echo that McCarthy may in fact need surgery on a groin problem.
Liverpool’s Adam Lallana in action with Everton’s James McCarthy
The Republic of Ireland international has been a regular at Goodison Park since following Roberto Martinez from Wigan to Everton in the summer of 2013, but the Spaniard’s departure means that McCarthy is now trying to impress new boss Koeman.
However, new signing Idrissa Gueye has established himself as a key player alongside Gareth Barry in midfield, and McCarthy was shoved to right wing back before being substituted early on against West Bromwich Albion in a tactical switch.
Tottenham’s Erik Lamela in action with Everton’s James McCarthy7
Now, the Daily Mail report that clubs are lining up moves to sign McCarthy, with Newcastle United prepared to open the bidding for his signature.
Magpies boss Rafael Benitez has splashed the cash throughout the summer, and may see McCarthy as the final piece of the jigsaw at St. James’ Park – but it’s stated that Everton have valued McCarthy at a whopping £20m.
Everton’s James McCarthy and Bournemouth’s Glenn Murray
However, Everton boss Koeman is believed to want a replacement before allowing McCarthy to leave, meaning that Newcastle – as well as other interested clubs such as Crystal Palace, Leicester and Sunderland – may face a real fight to land McCarthy before the transfer deadline.
Benitez does already have the likes of Jack Colback, Vurnon Anita, Jonjo Shelvey and Isaac Hayden at his disposal, but McCarthy would add more quality to the Newcastle midfield, as they look to not only build a team that can win promotion from the Championship, but also stay in the Premier League if they get there.
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