Report: Everton will not allow midfield outcast to join Sunderland

Everton have ruled out a January transfer for James McCarthy after he turned down a move to Sunderland, according to the Daily Star. The Republic of Ireland midfielder was a target of Sunderland manager David Moyes to help the struggling club avoid relegation this season.

However it has been reported that McCarthy decided against a move to Wearside. The club then decided that he will not leave, at least not until the summer.

Since the arrival of Ronald Koeman, McCarthy has struggled to gain regular first team minutes. Koeman however will not offload the player without getting a replacement first.

Everton are displaying fine form in the Premier League this season and challenging for a top seven position. Koeman will certainly need as many options as possible to achieve that.

The 26-year-old was regularly played during the tenure of Roberto Martinez as Everton manager. He is likely to leave during the summer for another club.