West Ham United are at the head of the queue alongside Celtic to sign Everton midfielder James McCarthy on loan this month, according to the Mirror.
The newspaper report in their live transfer blog [18:12] that the Everton are set to allow the Republic of Ireland international leave temporarily this month after his return to fitness following a broken leg.
The Mirror claim that West Ham are level with Celtic in the hunt for McCarthy, but the 28-year-old enforcer is said to be likely to opt for the Hoops, who he supported as a boy.
OPINION
A loan move for McCarthy makes perfect sense for the Hammers this month, with central midfield being an area which could do with some reinforcement. The Republic of Ireland international is a proven Premier League performer who was a regular for the Toffees before his unfortunate injury. In the time he has been out Everton have made several signings, meaning his place in the team has become far less certain. McCarthy would strengthen the West Ham midfield with his solid defensive work in front of the defence, with his Premier League experience allowing him to hit the ground running were he to arrive. Unfortunately for the Hammers, despite the claim they are leading the race, it looks like McCarthy is set to head north and join Celtic this month. Considering the fact that he supported the Hoops as a child, it is no surprise that McCarthy is keen on such a move taking place. Obviously the Hammers should still try and sign him, but it could be a futile attempt.
