James McCarthy
Following on from a link to another of Everton’s midfielders yesterday, there are also reports of interest in 13m James McCarthy.
The 26 year old former Wigan player, who it’s believed could be moved on for a lessor fee, is also being tracked by West Brom.
The Irish international has had mixed fortunes at Everton and has also struggled with injuries.
This included a public spat between Ronald Koeman and Martin O’Neill around how he had been “overloaded” through international pressure.
The interesting dynamic in the club vs country tug of war, is Everton’s assertion as recently as November 2016 that McCarthy hasn’t been match/training fit, yet has been named and turned out for Ireland.
McCarthy has been struggling to justify a place at Everton when former Villain Idrissa Gueye has been fit, whilst competition exists also with Tom Cleverley & Gareth Barry.
Key to McCarthy’s game previously has been his ability to create chances. This was more than one a game before his transfer, dropping to around 1 in 2 created since his move.
This creative yet combative nature, is therefore something which could be potentially harnessed in The Championship at Villa Park.
Aly Cissohko
If there’s one man to cause you worry on the teamsheet, then it’s this guy.
Whilst he has all of the attributes to be a powerful and commanding fullback, he’s struggled for form and quality this term.
Despite a couple of strong defensive displays early season, and even some improvements going forward, performances simply haven’t been up to scratch.
Two consecutive penalties conceded have seen him justifiably peripheral within the squad in recent months.
The former Liverpool & Valencia defender looks set for another move on, having also been shipped out on loan to Porto last term.
Greek side Olympiacos could well be his next and final destination.
Robbie Brady
Villa have been on off linked with Brady since last summer, but little appears to have been progressing in prizing him away from Norwich.
Intriguingly, as a creative player who can also play fullback, the Norwich chairman has stated that no firm bids have yet been received.
This appears to have all of the hallmarks of Bristol City’s chairmans comments before ultimately selling Kodjia. Every man has his price. It sits very well to generate interest, a bidding war (Newcastle and some Prem teams are monitoring) and ultimately drive the price up.
The facts are that Norwich need to raise funds if under pressure boss Neil is to have anything to spend. Brady is clearly one of their most valuable assets. This can surely only end one way?
Whilst it’s quiet at the moment, this will probably play out for the rest of January, but it wouldn’t be a shock to see Villa enter the frame.