Charlie Smith 
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Celtic are reportedly working hard on a recruitment plan to seal a deal for Crystal Palace midfielder James McCarthy, according to Eurosport.
The Hoops were linked with a pre-contract move for the boyhood Hoops fan last month, with Eurosport‘s recent report claiming the 30-year-old is aware of Celtic’s interest and would be keen on a Parkhead switch.
The story goes onto add that Celtic would need to make space in the squad and free up some cash to secure McCarthy’s services, with the club reportedly willing to sell Olivier Ntcham.
Many Celtic fans weren’t thrilled at the initial links to McCarthy, with one describing a potential move as ‘Shane Duffy-esque’.
Read Celtic verdict
Although Ntcham’s form hasn’t been the best this season, selling the 24-year-old to make way for an ageing midfielder in McCarthy might not be the best idea.
The Irishman has featured in just 332 minutes of Premier League action this season, so he may take a while to get up to speed in Glasgow.
The Hoops can’t afford to give McCarthy that luxury, as it seems they’ll have to go on a near-perfect run if they are to secure a 10th Scottish Premiership in a row.
It’ll be interesting to see what the club do in the New Year in regards to incomings and outgoings, but it seems as if they’re keen to get McCarthy in the green and white hoops.
