James McCarthy would be tempted to join Newcastle if Crystal Palace decide against offering the midfielder a new contract, according to a report from 90min.
Magpies fans are waiting for their first senior signing of the summer. And it now appears that Steve Bruce is set to have an extremely limited budget to work with.
According to 90min, Bruce could have less than £20 million to spend. Unsurprisingly, they may have to be clever in the market. And loans and free transfers are likely.
And one of the players they may be able to land is McCarthy. The 30-year-old is technically a free agent after his deal at Selhurst Park came to an end.
90min claims that McCarthy would be keen to move to St James’ Park. The chance to be reunited with former Wigan and Everton coach Graeme Jones is said to be a big lure.
However, McCarthy is seemingly yet to give up hope on staying. He is reportedly waiting to see if he is offered a new Palace deal.
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Signing James McCarthy unlikely to appease concerned Newcastle fans
McCarthy has been a decent performer in the Premier League. He has made over 270 appearances in the top flight.
However, signing the Republic of Ireland international is unlikely to capture the imagination of the Newcastle fans.
He turns 31 later this year. And of course, a move would potentially evoke memories of the deal for Jeff Hendrick last year.
McCarthy’s countryman arrived on a free after leaving Burnley. But it has not yet proved to be an inspired piece of business.
So perhaps the Newcastle fans may not be overly disappointed if he ultimately stays put at Palace.