Chelsea may have to battle it out with Liverpool if they are to sign Wigan midfielder James McCarthy this summer.
The Blues reportedly made a move for the midfielder in January, but the Latics were reluctant to let go of the player mid-season and rejected the offer. However, the west Londoners are expected to go back in with a £7m offer for McCarthy this summer and Liverpool are also expected to join the chase.
McCarthy only arrived at the DW Stadium from Scottish side Hamilton Academical in the summer of 2009 but has become a hit in the Premier League, especially this season, and has attracted the eyes of Chelsea as well as Liverpool, who almost signed the player four years ago.
Some readers of this blog have suggested that the 20-year-old could be an even better prospect than Everton’s Jack Rodwell, at just a snip of the price. And correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe McCarthy would also count as a home-grown player as the rule states:
“A home grown player is defined as one who, irrespective of his nationality or age, has been registered with any club affiliated to the Football Association or the Welsh Football Association for a period, continuous or not, of three entire seasons or 36 months prior to his 21st birthday (or the end of the season during which he turns 21).”
(PremierLeague.com)
So, McCarthy should fulfil the criteria as he arrived in English football as an 18 year old in 2009 and will turn 21 next season, his third year in the Premier League.
Liverpool are thought to be slight favourites for McCarthy’s signature as they could perhaps offer him a quicker route into the first team, but Chelsea seem to be something on a youth initiative after signing Lucas Piazon in the week whilst maintaining high hopes for the likes of Daniel Sturridge, Josh McEachran, Patrick van Aanholt and Jeffrey Bruma.
What do you think about this rumour? Would you likes to see James McCarthy at Stamford Bridge?
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He’s a great prospect, would fit in well at either club.
McCarthy is a fair Premiership player but Chelsea are trying to create something special which will continue to fight for the PL title and CL. Roman Abramovich has proven he is willing to spend big and is looking for ‘World class’ youngsters. It is why we are interested in players like Pato and Sanchez. It is why we have just signed a pre contract agreement for Lucas Piazon and no doubt will be making an improved offer for Neymar this summer. IMHO neither Jack Rodwell or James McCarthy are in this sort of league.