If we move away for a second from the comparision of McCarthy/Fellaini I think that the general consensus of Everton fans that they would stomach the sale of Fellaini more than the sale of Baines is important.
Two seasons ago I thought Fellaini was going to turn into a truly world class player.He has all the attributes,size ,strength,skill,scores goals, a bit of a midfield steel when needed. But he hasn't progressed in that time,we see glimpses of the player he could be,but not enough.
He doesn't dominate games,he should at this stage have the game revolving around him. I don't know why he hasn't moved on,but he hasn't. Maybe a move would help him although I feel that he might slow down a Utd midfield that has always operated at a breakneck pace.
He has acted in a professional way since RM has come to the club,but it is clear that Gibson is the main man for Martinez and not Fellaini. We don't know what wishes have been expressed by Fellaini and his agent. But,I cannot help but feel that maybe Fellaini thinks his carrer would be better served at a bigger club...and I would love to see McCarthy come in his stead.