Reports suggest Manchester United and Tottenham are looking to sign Everton midfielder James McCarthy this summer..
The Toffees rate the young Irishman at around £25m and are keen to begin talks over signing a new deal however United and Spurs are known to be long term admirers.
McCarthy was tracked by United when David Moyes was in charge and new boss Louis van Gaal clearly still feels that the midfielder can add to his squad. Mauricio Pochettino also has been given the green light to buy players since his arrival in May and will look to add to his squad as soon as possible.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is also an admirer of the former Wigan man, who has improved drastically under the guidance of Roberto Martinez, however United and Spurs lead the race for his signature.
McCarthy was a key performer for Everton last season after he followed Martinez from Wigan and helped his side to an impressive 5th place finish last campaign.
Everton are aware of the interest from other Premier League clubs and are hoping to secure a new deal for the 23 year-old before the start of the new season.
The Merseyside club are also reportedly willing to pay £4m to sign Bosnia and Herzegovina midfielder Muhamed Besic from Ferencvaros.
By Phil Wellbrook