West Ham United are eyeing Everton midfielder James Garner, according to ExWHUEmployee (via West Ham Way). He is “a player of interest at this stage.”
The Hammers desperately need reinforcement across the park and have their eyes on Garner, who has been impressive this season, as they look to bolster the engine room.
Garner has caught the eye of West Ham with his ability to operate in midfield and at left-back for David Moyes’ side.
The 24-year-old West Ham target has been a mainstay in the Everton starting XI, bagging a goal and an assist (four big chances created) in 11 league appearances.
Garner is a complete all-round midfielder who can provide the control the Hammers desperately need in the centre of the park.
His workrate means he is reliable on both sides of the ball.
Moyes is a massive fan of Garner. “He’s been fantastic since I came in,” said Moyes (via Everton’s website).
“I didn’t realise, probably, how good he was. He has been so good.”
Garner would be a stellar pick-up for the Irons, but it remains to be seen if the Toffees will let him go.
Even if they are willing to, Everton’s transfer demands could put the Hammers off.
Garner is a future England international, and Everton will be well aware that they can get a handsome fee for his services.
However, it is also worth noting that Everton are also interested in West Ham midfielder James Ward-Prowse, who is surplus to requirements at Rush Green.
Ward-Prowse has failed to convince West Ham boss Nuno Espirito Santo. The Portuguese tactician has sidelined him from the starting XI.
A January departure could be on the cards, and West Ham could try to use Ward-Prowse to sweeten a deal for Garner.
Meanwhile, ExWHUEmployee also revealed that the Hammers are scouting several players, including Charlie Cresswell, Adama Traore, and Franculino Dju.
Club Brugge duo Joel Ordonez and Romeo Vermant, alongside Lucas Stassin, are also on West Ham’s transfer radar.