Celtic could reach deal for Premier League midfielder in January

After the season that they have suffered, Celtic will have to make a few statement signings if they want to turn things around in the following campaign. Especially with the number of stars who are expected to leave the club next summer.

According to The Daily Mail, The Hoops are interested in signing Crystal Palace midfielder James McCarthy and want to get a pre-contract deal done in January itself. The anchor-man is out of contract at the end of the current campaign meaning is free to talk to clubs this month, which could pave the way for Celtic to make a move as they look to rebuild.

Burnley, West Bromwich Albion, West Ham United and Championship outfit Bournemouth are also reportedly keen on the Republic of Ireland international.

Having featured 42 times for his country, McCarthy could be an established replacement for Scott Brown, as it looks like Father Time has finally caught up with Broony as his performances have been on a downward spiral this season. Additionally, his availability on a free transfer becomes ever-more attractive considering the financial constraints present in football due to the global pandemic.

McCarthy could be a great signing for Celtic

Moving into 2021/22, the Hoops will need to act prudently in the transfer window in order to improve their roster. Pre-contract markets potentially provide them with an avenue to acquire the quality signings needed to achieve Champions League qualification.

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The former Hamilton Academical man has enjoyed a respectable career in England, excelling at Wigan Athletic and Everton before making the move to Crystal Palace.

Sadly, sustaining long-term injuries have become a recurring theme for McCarthy over the course of the last few years. Despite this, he is widely recognised as a cultured midfielder adept at breaking up opposition play alongside possessing commendable technique with regards to his passing.

If McCarthy can stay fit, he would become an important and experienced figure at Parkhead. With the Hoops expected to lose several senior members of the squad over the next few months, his imposing style could see him become an influential leader in the new-look dressing room come next season.

Advantageously, Celtic are James McCarthy’s favoured club, the lure of playing for his boyhood heroes may be too much to resist should any approach come to fruition.