Newcastle United are now believed to be ahead of Crystal Palace in the race to sign Everton midfielder, James McCarthy.
The Northern Echo reports that Rafa Benitez has made the midfielder his number one target after failing to land other options during the January transfer window.
Palace had been linked with making a late move for the midfielder, who has fallen down the pecking order at Goodison Park following the arrival of Morgan Schneiderlin from Manchester United.
Sam Allardyce has expressed his interest in signing the midfielder and is hoping the lure of Premier League football may be enough to seal the deal.
Benitez is hoping that their promotion campaign and Premier League football next season could be enough for him to complete a deal for the Irish international.
McCarthy has only made eight appearances this season and has previously been reluctant to leave Goodison Park, but following the club’s January arrivals, he may be forced to leave.
