James McCarthy linked with multiple teams for January move

It appears teams are still interested in acquiring the Republic of Ireland international James McCarthy even before his return from his groin injury. His playing time has been limited and with the great play of Idrissa Gueye it appears highly unlikely he will be a regular again, at least in that position.

The current speculation says Celtic and Newcastle United are interested in a January move, but that’s a long way away right now and plenty can happen before then. Right now it appeared Gareth Barry was struggling under the current work load this weekend and could surely be seen to need a day off here and there. Also Ross Barkley has not been unable to impress under Ronald Koeman so far and unless he does it’s highly possible he sees the bench for a few games.

All that to say Everton have only so many options in the central midfield and once healthy James McCarthy would be among the better options. I’d play McCarthy over Tom Cleverly and Darron Gibson, and with Muhamed Besic injured it’s even lighter when looking at defensive midfielders.

These rumors seem highly premature and unlikely to happen unless Everton first bring in more midfield options or Barkley plays much better and Barry turns about three to four years younger.