Celtic were previously linked with Everton’s James McCarthy, but the deal hasn’t come off.
For many, it would’ve been logical to believe that the Hoops simply weren’t interested in the Scottish-born Irish international. After all, no formal bid was reported to have been made, with Celtic seemingly just not being interested.
But, a report earlier today from the Irish Independent suggests the it was simply down to finances.
According to them, McCarthy is currently on around £50,000-per-week. Celtic simply can’t match anywhere near that kind of wage. It wouldn’t be surprising if Celtic took one look at those figures and thought better of it.
Of course, the Irishman was reportedly up for a move to Glasgow. He’s a well-known Celtic fan, and with the club previously linked with him back in 2009, this was a move that McCarthy would surely have loved to get done – even if only temporarily.
Not a necessity regardless
But, in the end, he wasn’t an essential buy for the club. Considering Celtic have the likes of Callum McGregor, Tom Rogic, and Ryan Christie in the creative roles at the centre of midfield, splashing cash out on McCarthy wasn’t necessary.
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Then again, perhaps the move could still be done out of left-field tonight. There’s been no reports over any additional interest from Celtic. No progress in any move for him either, and it’s highly unlikely this one goes through.
The Irish Independent source believe that Crystal Palace are set to move for him this evening. So it looks like we can forget about any move to Parkhead.
Celtic have made three signings during the transfer window so far. Oliver Burke and Timothy Weah have arrived on loan. Vakoun Issouf Bayo, meanwhile, has arrived from Dunajska Streda.
A deal for Marian Shved also looks all but complete. The winger watched Celtic see off St Johnstone last night, but Brendan Rodgers confirmed he’ll head back to Ukraine for the rest of the season.
It remains to be seen what further work is done by the club tonight. You can probably be sure one of the arrivals won’t be McCarthy anyway.