Celtic 'enter James McCarthy race'

Celtic have reportedly joined the race to sign James McCarthy from Everton during the January transfer window.

McCarthy has made just five Premier League starts for the Toffees so far this season and is understood to be open to a move away from Goodison Park next month.

The likes of Crystal Palace and West Bromwich Albion have been credited with an interest in the Republic of Ireland international, but the Daily Record reports that both clubs have begun looking at other targets.

Everton are thought to want £15m for the midfielder, but Celtic are keen to bring him to Glasgow on an initial loan deal with a view to making the move permanent during the summer.

However, McCarthy's £65,000-a-week wages are a sticking point for Celtic, who are in the market for midfield reinforcements as they look for a sixth straight Scottish Premiership crown.

Everton, meanwhile, have been linked with Manchester United midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin as a possible replacement for McCarthy.