Both Everton and Newcastle United could benefit from swapping the two players.
Magpies boss Rafa Benitez is determined to add more steel and tenacity to his midfield department this summer, as he looks to guide his side to a successful Premier League campaign.
One of the Spaniard’s targets is Toffees star James McCarthy, according to the Mirror, but Newcastle are not the only club after the 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international, with West Bromwich Albion and Burnley also believed to be interested in signing him.
The Toon could steal a march on their rivals, however, by offering Achraf Lazaar to Everton in part exchange for McCarthy’s services.
Newcastle United’s Achraf Lazaar in action
Blues boss Ronald Koeman will surely be looking to add another established left-back to his ranks this summer, with Leighton Baines on the wrong side of 32, and a long and physically punishing campaign ahead for his side, both domestically and abroad.
And despite the 25-year-old Moroccan barely featuring for Newcastle last term, he could be the ideal stand-in for Baines at Goodison Park.
He is a highly accomplished defender, and also offers a threat going forward – something that will appeal to Koeman, and if given more regular action, he could realise his true potential on Merseyside.
The former Palermo man’s value is substantially lower than McCarthy’s, however, so the Magpies would obviously have to offer the Toffees some money, as well as the services of Lazaar in order to bring the 26-year-old Irishman to St James’ Park.
With both players being deemed surplus to requirements at their respective clubs though, a swap deal involving the pair would seemingly be the ideal outcome for all parties involved.
Everton’s James McCarthy in action
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