A REPORT which claims Cherries are “considering a loan move” for Everton midfielder James McCarthy is understood to be wide of the mark.

The Daily Mail stated boss Eddie Howe had been seeking to bring in the Republic of Ireland international as cover for injured star Lewis Cook.

The newspaper claimed a deal had been “in the very early stages”.

But the Daily Echo understands there is no substance behind the report and that Cherries are not considering a move for the 28-year-old.

McCarthy recently returned to fitness after suffering a double leg fracture against West Brom almost 12 months ago.

He had surgery after sustaining the injury in an accidental collision with Salomon Rondon.

An FA Cup winner during his time at Wigan, McCarthy is yet to feature in a senior fixture for the Merseyside club since his return but has played at under-23 level.

The Mail claim McCarthy is also attracting loan interest from Fulham, Aston Villa and West Brom.

Cherries have already signed Liverpool full-back Nathaniel Clyne on loan this month as well as striking a £17.5million deal for frontman Dominic Solanke.