This summer, you can expect Crystal Palace to strengthen their squad, especially if there are key departures.

And one area the south London club could look to bolster going into the new season is midfield.

According to the Daily Mail, they are looking at Everton's James McCarthy in what could prove to be a hugely positive development for the 28-year-old.

Since returning from a broken leg, McCarthy has largely found himself on the periphery at Goodison Park, meaning a move to another Premier League outfit like Crystal Palace could be in his best interest as he searches for more minutes.

That being said, from the Eagles' perspective, it is not a transfer they desperately need.

When it comes to the middle of the park, Roy Hodgson is hardly starved of options. And when looking at those options, a lot of them are already similar players to McCarthy.

In Luka Milivojevic, James McArthur and Cheikhou Kouyate, Hodgson has midfielders who work extremely hard in the engine room and constantly look to win the ball back.

No, rather, the Crystal Palace boss should be targeting more creative midfielders if he remains intent on strengthening his midfield.

That added creativity could end up going a long way for his side next season should Wilfried Zaha depart Selhurst Park.

Ultimately, instead of more of the same like McCarthy, Hodgson should be targeting players who can bring something different to his team.

Crystal Palace fans, would you like to see McCarthy join your club in the summer? Join the discussion by commenting below.