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Everton are still in the process of rebuilding so the last thing they would want to do is lose one of their most consistent players.
Everton have made more hits than misses in the transfer market recently with David Moyes hoping to add more depth and quality in January.
Moyes wasn’t able to carry out a complete rebuild in the summer but will have been thankful to inherit a squad that already had a few gems. One of those being James Garner who, after signing from Man Utd, has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent players.
Premier League clubs eye James Garner move
Garner might be playing out of position recently, however, he has the technical ability to play almost anywhere on the park and it is no surprise to see clubs starting to sit up and take notice. As a home-grown player, the 24-year old is an attractive option for several teams in the league with Aston Villa, according to Football Insider eyeing a move for the Everton utility man.
Former Sky Sports journalist Pete O’Rourke claims that three clubs have “registered their interest” and that “Everton reportedly have the option to extend Garner’s contract for another year at the end of the season, so the situation may not be as urgent as it seems. However, with the likes of Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa and Newcastle now circling, the Toffees may want to get the midfielder tied down.”
The option to extend Garner’s deal will almost certainly be tied up which will give Everton time to discuss new terms. It might mean that the Forest loanee needs a significant pay-rise, but the cost of replacing him would still make it a worthwhile investment. Newcastle’s interest has already been addressed by Garner himself who hasn’t heard anything about potential contract talks.
What David Moyes has said about James Garner
One other aspect of the speculation is that Moyes is clearly a huge fan of Garner and has even tipped him for international recognition.
“He’s been fantastic since I came in,” said Moyes. “I didn’t realise probably how good he was. He’s been so good. He’s played great in midfield and he’s played full-back for me as well. I’ve said a couple of times recently he’s probably getting closer to getting talked about for England because of his performances.
“By the way, England have got so many good players to select from, so for anyone to select a team [is difficult]. I’ve been listening to discussions all week about (Phil) Foden and (Jude) Bellingham, etc., but all I’m saying is Jimmy is one of the group of young English midfield players who maybe in the future has a chance of getting a call-up.
“He’s done a brilliant job for us, Jimmy, and he’s playing very well.” Given Elliot Anderson’s rise to prominence, there is no reason why Garner couldn’t force his way into Thomas Tuchel’s plans one day either.
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