‘Promotion specialist’ Mick McCarthy a summer target for Fulham

Big Mick could be headed for the big smoke

Mick McCarthy has emerged as a summer target for Fulham as they aim to get back to the Premier League. Renowned as a 'promotion specialist' McCarthy has worked wonders at Ipswich this season despite operating with a transfer budget that consists of a few washing machines, an old set of jerseys and a couple of crates of beer. Ipswich have fallen off the pace in recent weeks, but remain in with a chance of reaching the play-offs, so it is no real surprise that McCarthy is a target for Championship clubs dreaming of the big bucks on offer when the new £5 billion TV deal kicks in next season. McCarthy signed a new contract at Portman Road last summer but Fulham are reportedly willing to pay whatever compensation is needed and hand McCarthy a bumper contract with a promotion bonus as well as a sizeable transfer kitty in order to get back among the big boys. Any interest from McCarthy is likely to depend on whether or not Ipswich get promoted (and Fulham avoid relegation) but should both sides be in the Championship next season the relative riches on offer at Craven Cottage may be of interest to the former Ireland manager. Steve Bruce was reportedly Fulham's initial target to replace Kit Symons in the summer, but the former Manchester United defender signed a new deal at Hull City, so Fulham turned their attention to McCarthy.