CELTIC midfielder James McCarthy will not be making his way to Stoke City, it has been reported. 

Sky Sports say that the Republic of Ireland international could be loaned out before tonight's midnight transfer deadline. 

However, they report that Stoke will not be making an offer for the former Wigan, Everton and Crystal Palace player.

It has been suggested that Alex Neil's new side were keen on McCarthy. 

But it appears that interest has now cooled, with just hours left of the summer window.