Everton boss Roberto Martinez is planning a bumper bid for Wigan Athletic midfielder James McCarthy.

The Sunday Express says Martinez is preparing to raid his former club Wigan for a fourth time with a £15million move for Republic of Ireland star McCarthy.

He sees the 22-year-old as crucial to his plans for a successful campaign.

Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas is also interested in the player, who was snapped up by Wigan from Hamilton for around £1m.