A host of Premiership clubs are competing with Barcelona for Hamilton whizkid James McCarthy.

The teenager has long been heralded as a future star after making his Hamilton debut at just 15.

He spent time at Liverpool in 2007, while Arsenal, Manchester United and a host of clubs from the continent are all regularly checking on him.

And McCarthy's agent George Gray confirmed the Catalan giants remain actively interested.

"Barcelona have asked me to keep them informed about James," Gray told The Scottish Sun.

"They are just one of a few Spanish sides who have been in touch. In fact, the number of teams who have contacted me about him is unbelievable.

"There are a number of English clubs keeping tabs on his progress too. But he is enjoying playing in The SPL for Hamilton. This is his first year playing against the likes of Celtic and Rangers and his performances have been impressive.

"James is a wonderful talent. He has everything in his locker and he is as good as anyone around his age. Remember, he has just turned 18. I know what Chelsea have in that age group and he is as good as anything at Stamford Bridge.

"I would imagine when he signs for a bigger club, and shares a training ground with world-class acts every day, he will take his own game to a different level. That will be the same when he breaks into the Republic of Ireland squad. He will play for them in the future - there's no doubt about it."