Everton are set to target Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy in the January transfer window as they look to bolster their squad ahead of their battle to remain in the Premier League, according to Football Insider.
The Toffees were rocked earlier this month when they were docked 10 points for breaching financial regulations, a decision which sent them crashing into the bottom three. They are expected to appeal the sanction but for now, Sean Dyche will lead his team into this afternoon’s clash with Manchester United in desperate need of three points after fellow relegation candidates Luton Town and Bournemouth both recorded victories yesterday.
The upcoming January transfer window is set to be a big one for the Merseysider’s and a number of players are reportedly being targeted. One of those is Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy.
Football Insider claim that Dyche is desperate for experienced cover for current number one Jordan Pickford and the current Saints shotstopper is a player he was keen to bring in in the summer. However, the former Reading man remained at St Mary’s, although he is yet to make a single Championship appearance this season.
Republic of Ireland international Gavin Bazunu is currently Russell Martin’s first choice, with McCarthy’s solitary outing this season coming in the 3-1 defeat against Gillingham in the Carabao Cup first round in August.
It is said that Everton’s financial situation will limit their activity to either loan moves or free transfers. The former would look to be the case here, with the one-time England international under contract at Southampton until 2025.
Everton also targeted McCarthy’s Southampton teammate Che Adams in the summer but are unlikely to follow up their interest in the New Year whilst the ongoing appeal continues.
Writer’s View
It’s not unusual for Premier League clubs to target experienced players such as McCarthy as backup goalkeepers. We’ve seen Manchester City bring in Scott Carson whilst Manchester United signed Jack Butland on loan last season.
Southampton may be reluctant to let the 33-year-old depart in January, especially because they are targeting an immediate return to the top flight and will not want to weaken their squad ahead of the business end of the season. That said, it would be interesting to see if the veteran would push for a move to Goodison Park.
Head of Writing
