Report: Everton have no interest in signing ‘fantastic’ 33-year-old this summer

Everton are not pursuing a move for Southampton’s Alex McCarthy.

That’s according to the Liverpool Echo, who have played down rumours of the Toffees’ interest in the goalkeeper.

The Evening Standard have this week reported that McCarthy is the subject of interest from both Everton and Crystal Palace after initial talks with Luton Town broke down.

The 33-year-old has entered the final 12 months of his contract and is eager to move back to the Premier League after making only six appearances in the top flight last season.

The report had claimed that the Toffees saw McCarthy as a new back-up goalkeeper following Asmir Begovic’s departure, however the ECHO have now disputed their claims.

They have since reported that Everton have no interest in signing McCarthy and don’t see him as a target, while Joao Virginia could instead replace Begovic after he was named on the bench for their opening day defeat to Fulham. Andy Lonergan is also among the ranks after signing a new one-year deal.

Alex McCarthy would be an unnecessary addition to the Everton squad

Joao Virginia only signed a new contract at Everton a month ago and seems likely to be given a chance behind Jordan Pickford at Goodison Park.

Everton have rarely been linked with a new goalkeeper this summer, suggesting they were already content with their options in between the sticks.

To see them now target Alex McCarthy would be a slight surprise, especially considering he reportedly earned £50,000-a-week at Southampton while barely kicking a ball.