Newcastle United have been linked as fovourites to sign James McCarthy from Everton this month – and fans would love to see his move to Saint James Park come through.

The odds were slammed yesterday on the Republic of Ireland international transferring to Rafael Benitez’s team before the deadline.
Following a wave of bets, bookmakers Sky Bet shortened the odds on McCarthy, 26, moving to Newcastle this month to 8/11 by Monday night. Benitez’s side are place well ahead of second favourites. Celtic, who are 12/1 to land McCarthy, clear of Crystal Palace (14/1) and Sunderland (18/1).
Newcastle fans are keen for Benitez to revamp the club’s midfield even though the team is doing well at the top of the Championship. Supporters have been particularly critical of ex-Sunderland man Jack Colback this season, while Cheick Tiote is on the verge of moving to Sporting Gijon in Spain.
A broad section of the Newcastle faithful believe McCarthy would be an upgrade on the many of the current central midfielders available to Benitez and are excited at the possibility of the club signing him this month. Read more