Accies to land millions if McCarthy moves on

Andre Villas-Boas is said to be a big admirer of the 22-year-old Republic of Ireland international, with McCarthy seen as a natural replacement for veteran midfielder Scott Parker, who could be on his way out at White Hart Lane this summer.

Everton and Fulham are also believed to be interested in the former New Douglas Park star, with Everton now being bossed by Roberto Martinez, the man who lured McCarthy south to the DW Stadium.

McCarthy was in the top 10 Premier League players in terms of passes completed and created 36 assists despite playing for a side that were relegated last term.

Accies' secretary Scott Struthers admitted that Hamilton are anticipating a bumper pay-out if their former star makes a multi-million pound move.

He said: "We have a private agreement in place with Wigan Athletic concerning a sell-on clause which would insure that Hamilton are rewarded for all the time and investment we put into James' development.

"It would not be appropriate to divulge that figure, but it will be a significant one if James does indeed move for anything like the figures being quoted."

But with relegation to the Championship and the arrival of Owen Coyle as new Wigan boss, chairman Dave Whelan will have his work cut out keeping the nucleus of his FA Cup-winning side together.

Coyle may view any multi million fee for the midfielder as a massive plus as he looks to get the Latics back up to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Although Tottenham are unlikely to meet the £20million fee that Whelan is demanding for his prized asset, it is believed that any offer in excess of half that valuation could be accepted, especially if McCarthy was to hand in a transfer request.

McCarthy came on AVB's radar after a superb performance against Gareth Bale in April in a 2-2 draw between Wigan and Spurs.

Villas-Boas is a manager well known for backing youth and White Hart Lane would seem the perfect destination for McCarthy.