Celtic are reportedly pursuing a deal for Everton’s James McCarthy.
Republic of Ireland’s James McCarthy as Italy’s Stefano Sturaro sustains an injury
According to the Daily Mail, Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is set to step up his interest in signing Everton midfielder James McCarthy on loan.
The Bhoys achieved their goal on Tuesday evening, as despite losing 2-0 away at Hapoel Be’er Sheva, they qualified for the Champions League group stage with a 5-4 aggregate victory.
Tottenham’s Erik Lamela in action with Everton’s James McCarthy
After two failed qualification campaigns under Ronny Deila, new boss Rodgers has now guided Celtic back to Europe’s elite competition – and he’s looking for new signings to boost his squad.
The Daily Record noted that qualification for the Champions League means Celtic have pocketed £22m, and Rodgers appears to be keen on spending part of that windfall.
Liverpool’s Adam Lallana in action with Everton’s James McCarthy
The Daily Mail report that Celtic are set to step up their interest in signing Everton midfielder James McCarthy, but the move would only be a loan deal.
McCarthy, 25, was born in Glasgow and grew up supporting Celtic (Irish Independent), but started his career in Scotland with Hamilton Academical before his appearances earned him a move to Wigan Athletic in 2009.
The Republic of Ireland international is now at Everton having followed Roberto Martinez to Goodison Park in 2013, but new manager Ronald Koeman has brought in Idrissa Gueye from Aston Villa, meaning some questions surround McCarthy’s future.
Tottenham’s Danny Rose in action with Everton’s James McCarthy
It’s stated that Bournemouth, Crystal Palace, Newcastle, Sunderland and Watford are all interested in signing McCarthy, but Rodgers is ready to step up his interest after Tuesday’s result.
Playing Champions League football for his boyhood club may be incredible appealing to McCarthy, but Celtic seemingly don’t have the funds for a permanent deal, meaning Rodgers would have to settle for a loan move.
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