Manchester United’s recruitment chief, Christopher Vivell, has decided against bringing James Garner back to Old Trafford.
With James Garner’s contract at Everton running out, the defensive midfielder has been linked with a move back to Manchester United. However, according to Dean Jones via TEAMtalk, the Red Devils are not planning to re-sign him.
Christopher Vivell, who is Manchester United’s director of recruitment, has decided against bringing the 24-year-old back to Old Trafford, despite the academy graduate being out of contract at the end of the season.
James Garner came up the ranks at Manchester United. While the Englishman got promoted to the first team and even made seven senior appearances, they ended up cashing in on him in the summer of 2022. The English midfielder was also keen on making the switch, as it would guarantee him regular minutes.
Over the years, James Garner has been involved in 97 matches, and he has even contributed towards eight goals. While the 24-year-old prefers playing as a defensive midfielder, he can feature in any role in the centre of the park and can even chip in as a left-back when needed.
James Garner is linked with a return to Old Trafford
The 24-year-old remains an integral part of their first team, but his future is up in the air as his contract is running out. Reports have suggested Manchester United are keeping tabs on their academy graduate.
The Premier League heavyweights are looking for more quality and depth in the centre of the park, and they consider James Garner an interesting option to bolster their midfield. The chance of bringing him back on a free transfer is certainly tempting. However, Jones has suggested that they have decided against it.
Dean Jones on Garner’s future
While talking about Garner’s future, the transfer insider said, “Garner is having a good time of it recently, but in terms of actually joining Man Utd, I don’t think that moment is coming. The way the club are building and evolving would not really lead me to believe that they are looking into it too seriously.
“Of course, they have an awareness of his situation, and I can see why there would be speculation around it. I think you could even make a case that he would be very helpful for them at the moment.
“They do appreciate him and have always known of his potential, obviously. But Everton would like him to stay on, other clubs are watching on, and – given where Man Utd are heading transfer-wise in 2026 – I just don’t think there will be too much focus on it.”
While Manchester United do admire James Garner and they are aware of his situation, the Red Devils are not looking at him as an option to reinforce their midfield. Ruben Amorim’s team have other plans moving forward.
Meanwhile, Everton are keen on retaining his services, and they are set to hold talks with his camp over a new long-term deal. The Toffees are confident that he will put pen to paper, despite the fact that there are some top clubs after his signature.