The Latics have forged a reputation for unearthing rough diamonds, polishing them and selling them on for a sizeable profit.
Antonio Valencia was plucked from obscurity and nurtured into a player of interest to Manchester United, while Victor Moses was handed a stage on which to shine and earn a switch to Chelsea.
McCarthy could be the next high-profile departure from the DW Stadium, with the Republic of Ireland international having matured into a proven Premier League performer.
Wigan were prepared to take a gamble on his potential when they snapped the midfielder up from Hamilton when he was just 18, and Roberto Martinez claims he would be happy to see McCarthy go on to bigger and better things in the future.
The Latics boss told the Wigan Evening Post: "That's the nature of the game. I'm pleased to see him improving, enjoying his football, taking responsibility and putting in performances to get good results for Wigan Athletic.
"James McCarthy's got the potential to play anywhere in the world and whenever he's ready we'll never stop him.
"But James McCarthy is at a very good club now and we want top players to stay here for as long as we can."
Improvement
He added: "At 22 to have the tactical awareness that he has and to be so consistent week in, week out...
"James knows he needs another period of improvement, but from a technical point of view he can play in any team in the world and he will do one day.
"We just enjoy seeing him grow and seeing him enjoy his football and being an important player for us and at international level."
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