Everton owners The Friedkin Group have spent well this summer, and their transfer business is a sign of things to come on Merseyside – but their next step will be keeping hold of one of their stars after a fresh development.
Everton boss David Moyes landed Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in the summer transfer window, aiming to bolster the club’s attacking ranks – and they have done that to an extent alongside Iliman Ndiaye’s brilliance.
However, for all of their creative prospects, it’s the engine room in their midfield which has significantly impressed this season, giving their attack the foundations to succeed.
And James Garner, who has been crucial for the Scottish boss in the Premier League this season, must not be let go by owners The Friedkin Group amid recent interest in securing his signature.
Everton v Tottenham Hotspur - Premier League
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James Garner contract needs to be sorted by TFG after a new transfer development
Everton had already seen Newcastle United register their interest in James Garner earlier in the month, with the former Manchester United starlet set to be out of contract in the summer.
However, an update by journalist Pete O’Rourke has stated that Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest have also joined the race, with Garner previously enjoying a loan spell at the latter.
His future is up in the air, but Everton have initiated contract talks with Garner in recent times.
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It’s thought that he may have an option to extend his contract for another year on Merseyside, but Everton will want Garner tied down for longer.
It’s a deal they simply can’t afford to miss out on. Garner has been in the conversation for an England call-up thanks to his form, and at the age of just 24, he has plenty of time to improve where he could become a real key player for David Moyes in the future.
James Garner bears similarities to James McCarthy in Everton’s midfield
James Garner’s role in the team bears similarities to another former Everton favourite in James McCarthy.
The Scotland-born Irish international signed for Everton 12 years ago from Wigan Athletic, whilst Roberto Martinez was manager.
He formed a strong partnership with Gareth Barry in the centre of the park – and that shows a similar trajectory to Garner today.
Premier League season James Garner – games and goals James McCarthy – games and goals
First season 16 (0) 34 (1)
Second season 37 (1) 28 (2)
Third season 21 (0) 29 (2)
Fourth season 11 (1) 12 (1)
Garner typically partners Idrissa Gueye in the midfield pivot, with Gueye’s experience being akin to Barry’s, whilst McCarthy’s skillset rivals Garner’s.
It allowed the likes of Ross Barkley, Kevin Mirallas, Romelu Lukaku and Gerard Deulofeu to shine up front, much like Everton’s current stars today.
McCarthy’s debut season for Everton saw them finish fifth in the table, and fans will be hoping that Garner can do the same at the Hill Dickinson Stadium going forward as long as they keep him in their ranks.