James McCarthy could be on his way out of Everton after falling out of favour with Ronald Koeman, according to reports.

Koeman has preferred Gareth Barry and summer signing Idrissa Gueye in central midfield for the opening two matches of the season, with McCarthy used as a right wing-back.

The Republic of Ireland international was substituted after only 38 minutes in the victory at West Brom as Koeman made a tactical switch.

And according to the Daily Mail, McCarthy could fall further down the pecking order in his preferred position, with Everton interested in Zenit Saint Petersburg’s Axel Witsel and Newcastle’s Moussa Sissoko.

Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez is keen on any such deal for Sissoko to include McCarthy moving in the opposite direction.

Likewise, Sunderland would want the 25-year-old as part of a deal for Everton target Lamine Kone.

McCarthy struggled last season after playing through hamstring and groin injuries but remains highly-regarded by rival managers, with Celtic, Watford and Aston Villa also linked with a loan move.