Hull City have beaten Everton to the signing of Irish defensive prospect Cathal McCarthy, according to the Irish Mirror.
The 18-year-old will officially join the Championship side in January but will be loaned back to University College Dublin to complete his leaving certificate.
The report states that McCarthy was also a target for Fulham, Derby County, Norwich City, and Millwall, alongside Everton.
Everton’s need for defensive reinforcements is well-documented, with Sky Sports journalist Alan Myers recently confirming the club’s interest in strengthening their backline during the January transfer window.
Missing out on McCarthy, a highly-rated talent, is a setback for the Toffees, particularly as he was seen as a potential long-term successor to Jarrad Branthwaite.
McCarthy Picks Hull Over Everton
Hull City have pulled off an impressive coup by securing McCarthy’s signature despite competition from Premier League and Championship clubs.
The young Irish defender reportedly favoured the Tigers due to the clearer pathway they offered to first-team football.
It’s a pragmatic choice. Everton’s track record with integrating young defensive signings has been mixed. Jake O’Brien, for instance, has found regular playing time elusive since his summer move from Lyon.
The situation highlights a broader issue at Goodison Park. As The Friedkin Group edges closer to completing their takeover, Everton must address their struggles to attract and retain top young talent.
Losing out on promising prospects like McCarthy, especially to Championship sides, underscores the need for a more competitive recruitment strategy.
A Missed Opportunity for Everton
McCarthy’s rise in the Republic of Ireland is a testament to his talent, and comparisons to Seamus Coleman—one of Everton’s all-time great signings—are inevitable. The Blues know how transformative a successful Irish acquisition can be.
Director of football Kevin Thelwell now faces the task of revisiting Everton’s transfer targets. While missing out on McCarthy is a blow, the fact that the club is planning for the future should offer some encouragement to fans as they await new ownership.
The focus now turns to finding alternative reinforcements and ensuring Everton remain competitive in the market during a critical January window.
