Long term Celtic midfield target James McCarthy looks set to be released by Crystal Palace as the club prepare for an enormous summer overhaul. Similarly, Celtic are currently undergoing a reset operation after this disappointing season. With just two games remaining this season, the Ireland International looks to be drawing down his contract after the Selhurst Park hierarchy opted against offering a new deal to the former £8m man.
According to The Athletic, McCarthy will not be offered new terms, leaving him a free agent which means he could sign for Celtic. The Parkhead club have often been linked with the former Everton and Wigan midfielder, he came through the Celtic Academy before joining Hamilton Accies.
Celtic could see McCarthy as a successor to Scott Brown in the middle of the park, aiding heir apparent Callum McGregor to fill the vacuum left by departing club legend Brown. McCarthy brings a blend of experience and pedigree that could make him an important player for seasons to come.
The 30-year-old has made 271 Premier League appearances, scoring 13 goals and assisting 16 times. The player has struggled for game time this year, making just sixteen appearances for Palace but given Roy Hodgson is leaving, the player will likely follow his manager out of the door.
Celtic need to be shrewd with their business, signing players that would make an instant impact to the team and the boyhood Celtic fan would bring that. Furthermore, he could even be seen as a candidate for the captaincy if there were reservations about McGregor’s ability to motivate his teammates in the fashion that Brown did.
