By Frank McAvennie

26th Jan, 2021 | 8:41am

Pundit View: Celtic told to spend the cash elsewhere after approach to sign proven PL star

Celtic do not need to sign Crystal Palace midfielder James McCarthy and should spend their money elsewhere, according to Frank McAvennie.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the Parkhead legend insisted that David Turnbull and Ismaila Soro are the future of the club and therefore does not see a place for McCarthy, 30, in the team.

Experienced Premier League operator McCarthy has entered the final six months of his contract at Selhurst Park and can now speak to foreign clubs regarding a pre-contract agreement.

Football Insider revealed last week that the Bhoys are keeping tabs on the Glasgow-born midfielder’s situation as they look to strengthen their midfield.

A new Palace contract for McCarthy seems unlikely, he has started just six games this season in all competitions.

When asked by Football Insider if he would welcome the signing of the former Hamilton man, McAvennie said: “Celtic sign so they can sell on, sadly that is the way they are now.

“I do not have a problem with that but McCarthy is 30 and therefore he does not have much sell on value.

“Turnbull and Soro are the future of that midfield and I would rather see the money spent elsewhere.

“Those two are growing in every game. Soro is putting great tackles in and Turnbull is just everywhere – they complement each other well.”  

Soro, 22, and Turnbull, 21, have had big impact on Neil Lennon’s side since December.

The pair have established themselves as two of the first names on the team sheet at Parkhead with Soro keeping club captain Scott Brown out of the side.

In other news, Celtic have been tipped to sign a ‘diamond’ of a player for a ‘bargain’ price after a loan-to-buy offer is revealed.