Arsenal 'to bid £16m for Everton's James McCarthy'

Arsenal are reportedly ready to make a £16m bid for Everton midfielder James McCarthy in January.

According to the Daily Mail, Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has identified the Republic of Ireland international as someone who can add defensive qualities in midfield and is suited to how Arsenal will play.

The Toffees are thought to be reluctant to let any of their brightest talents leave Goodison Park, with big clubs also rumoured to taking an interest in Seamus Coleman and Ross Barkley in recent weeks.

However, Arsenal are believed to be willing to make a substantial bid to test Everton's resolve.

McCarthy is currently facing a period of three weeks on the sidelines after injuring his hamstring in the Blues' 2-0 Europa League win against Wolfsburg on Thursday.