Celtic will be ‘open’ to any kind of exit for James McCarthy should offers arrive in January, according to BBC pundit Alan Hutton.

The Lowdown: Celtic green-light McCarthy departure

The Premiership champions signed the midfielder on a four-year deal in the summer of 2021, but he has so far failed to make any significant impact in Ange Postecoglou’s starting XI.

Recent reports have claimed that the Glasgow outfit will be listening to proposals for the 31-year-old in the winter, with the Parkhead hierarchy wanting him to ‘find a new club’ in an attempt to ‘free up space’ on the wage bill.

The Latest: Hutton’s comments

Asked by Football Insider whether Celtic would rather McCarthy left on a loan or permanent basis in the New Year, Hutton said: “I think they will be open to both.

“I think if they can get some money in through the door to then reinvest it somewhere else I think they would rather that option.

“There is no getting away from the fact that he is a really great football player. He has struggled with injuries over the years.

“I was surprised at the contract they actually gave him. It was a long-term deal at the time with somebody who had not really been able to stay fit. It was a bit of a strange one.

“When he has played we have seen in flashes what he is capable of but it has not been on that consistent level. I think if offers do come in they will definitely listen to them.“

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The Verdict: Correct call

McCarthy has previously been dubbed ‘sublime’ by journalist Josh Bunting, but making the decision to let him leave would be the right one from Celtic.

The Republic of Ireland international has only recorded one assist in 27 appearances for the Hoops and has started zero games this season, with a mere 30 minutes of game-time across all competitions showing how out of favour he is under Postecoglou.

Having been nothing more than a bit-part player since the manager's arrival at Parkhead, McCarthy will be in need of game-time; and with the Hoops ready to cash in, a permanent exit would be in the best interests of both parties.