According to a recent report by the Sun, Newcastle United are eyeing a £5m bid to secure the signature of Everton midfield ace James McCarthy before the summer transfer window comes to a close next month. The same source has mentioned that the new Magpies boss Steve Bruce is looking to strengthen his midfield options ahead of the new campaign and wants to add the Republic of Ireland playmaker for a cut-price fee in this off-season.
James McCarthy’s Injury-Ridden Spell At Merseyside
The Glasgow-born talent missed most of the previous campaign due to a severe tibia and fibula fracture. The 28-year-old made just one appearance for the Toffees, featuring for 14 minutes in a 4-0 Premier League win over Manchester United last season.
McCarthy will have a lot to prove in the upcoming campaign, but his injury history makes him a gamble for any of his potential suitors. Since making a high-profile switch from Wigan Athletic back in 2013, the Republic of Ireland international has gone on to make 133 appearances for Everton while scoring six goals and grabbing ten assists in the process.
The former Celtic youngster has failed to live up to the high expectations surrounding his move to Goodison Park. So maybe a change in scenery this summer will do his confidence a world of good as he tries to resurrect his career in English football.
What Will The Toffees Playmaker Add To Steve Bruce’s Side?
McCarthy can distribute the ball accurately from midfield and can create a few openings for others around him. He can also put in a solid defensive shift as a holding midfielder and provide adequate cover at the back. The Republic Of Ireland talent can make some crucial interceptions for his team but lacks the pace to recover in 1v1 situations when left isolated inside his own half.
Acquiring McCarthy: Wise Move For Bruce?
At 28, there is still enough time for McCarthy to revive his career and become a household name in the English top-flight. If he can get some valuable game time under his belt, then there is an excellent chance that he might turn out to be a success story at St. James’ Park in the coming years.
Thus, he could turn out to be a wise acquisition for the Magpies as they try to build their squad on a limited budget ahead of another tough and gruelling Premier League campaign.
