Manchester United scouts have told INEOS that they should make a move to sign Everton star James Garner this summer in a 'marquee' deal, according to TEAMtalk.
The Red Devils are expected to make a major overhaul of their midfield at the end of the season, as they look to ensure the squad is capable of competing in the Champions League, with a number of players linked with a switch to Old Trafford.
Newcastle star Sandro Tonali is emerging as a top target with the club working hard to get a deal done, while Elliot Anderson has been strongly linked for months despite strong competition from Man City, but the club's recruitment team have identified someone else who should be the main focus of their pursuit.
Man Utd Scouts Want James Garner
James Garner
Garner, who made his debut for the England senior team during the 1-1 draw with Uruguay on Friday night, has been one of the top midfield performers in the Premier League this season, helping Everton to push for a European spot in the table.
Described as a 'mini Federico Valverde' by Thomas Tuchel, United scouts have been highly impressed by his ability to cover ground, win possession back with tackles and interceptions, as well as his leadership and tactical discipline.
The scouting department have described Garner as someone who is ready to become a 'marquee franchise player', and they have told INEOS that they should look to bring the Carrington graduate back to Old Trafford.
However, the club may have seemingly missed their chance to get a deal done, after the 25-year-old signed a new long-term contract at the Hill Dickinson Stadium earlier this year, bringing an end to speculation over his future, with his previous deal expiring at the end of the current campaign.
Garner Could Be Excellent Man Utd Addition
James Garner celebrates scoring for Everton
The Reds clearly need a midfield rebuild, with Casemiro leaving at the end of his contract and big question marks over the future of Manuel Ugarte.
The likelihood is that the club will bring in several midfielders, and while Garner may not be the big-name that a lot of fans want, he could easily be one of the options that comes in to provide quality depth and competition within the squad, in what the club hope will be a 50-60 game season.
GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT what the chances of a return to Old Trafford for Garner are this summer, and this was its response:
James Garner has just signed a long-term deal with Everton until 2030, making a transfer difficult
Reports say Manchester United are interested but a move this summer is “unlikely”
He’s now a key player at Everton, so they have little incentive to sell
Overall: ~15% interest exists, but circumstances make it unlikely this summer.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick celebrates after the match Related
Fabrizio Romano: Man Utd 'Working Hard' to Sign £100m 'Superstar'
Manchester United are ‘working hard’ on a summer deal for the 25-year-old midfielder.