Leeds United are reportedly rivalling Aston Villa, West Ham and Newcastle United to the potential signing of Crystal Palace midfielder James McCarthy according to 90min. 

McCarthy has been a regular for the Eagles since signing from Everton, after struggling with injuries in his time with the Merseyside-based club.

The midfielder made 35 appearances in all competitions for Crystal Palace in the 2019/20 season, as they finished 14th in the Premier League standings.

Aston Villa registered their interest in signing the 29-year-old after they confirmed their status in the top-flight for another season, whilst Steve Bruce and David Moyes are said to be long-term admirers of McCarthy.

Leeds are preparing for life back in the Premier League, after they won promotion from the Championship under the management of Marcelo Bielsa.

The Whites finished top of the table and an impressive ten points clear of second-placed West Brom in the 2019/20 season, and the Leeds boss will be hoping to make the necessary additions to his squad in the summer transfer window.

It is believed that Crystal Palace are keen to get as much of the £8million they paid for McCarthy back in any potential agreement to sell him during the summer, although it remains to be seen as to which club is the frontrunner to land his signature.

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The Verdict: 

I think this is a smart move by Leeds.

McCarthy has a considerable amount of experience under his belt in the Premier League, and fits the bill with Bielsa's style of play in terms of his impressive work-rate.

But the Whites face a real battle to land his signature, as you would imagine that Newcastle United and Aston Villa will be in a strong position to reach an agreement with Crystal Palace for the Irishman.

He'd provide Leeds with much-needed strength in depth though, that's for sure.