According to reports from the Daily Mail, Newcastle are willing to pay up to £20 million to bring Everton midfielder James McCarthy to St James Park.
Magpies manager Rafa Benitez is looking to bring in players who are tried and tested performers in the Premier League, ahead of his side’s return to top flight football next season. McCarthy is also keen to move to a new club, after not receiving regular first team action under Ronald Koeman this season.
The 26 year old has made just a couple of Premier League starts and 12 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring one goal. The Magpies also attempted to lure the Republic of Ireland international during the January transfer window, but failed in their attempts, it is likely that they will inquire again.
Though the Magpies will inquire about McCarthy, it is hard to see owner Mike Ashley agreeing to a £20 million bid. Benitez reportedly has £70 million to bolster the side during the summer and such a figure will take up a significant portion of the total budget.