Erik ten Hag should keep an eye on James Garner

Erik ten Hag will watch James Garner first-hand before deciding on the Manchester United midfielder’s immediate future.

Garner, 21, was outstanding on loan at Nottingham Forest as he helped the club return to the Premier League for the first time since 1999 with a 1-0 win over Huddersfield in the Championship Play-off final.

Garner’s return to United’s Carrington training complex will be delayed as he is on England Under-21 duty until June 13. United’s first day of pre-season is on June 27, and Garner is expected to be among the second group of returnees.

If Ten Hag decides on another loan for Garner, then United are only likely to consider options in the Premier League. Top-tier clubs expressed interest in loaning Garner in the January transfer window, but he wanted to stay at Forest.

Mourinho is impressed with the youngster

It was under Jose Mourinho that Garner first started training with the first team, and though he was too young to make an impact during the Roma boss’ time at Old Trafford, he’s clearly left a lasting impression.

According to the reports, Mourinho recently told a close friend that Garner ‘is a player’.

At 21, United may allow Garner to stay on loan at Nottingham Forest for another season to let him get Premier League experience.

Another loan move?

According to the reports, Leeds United has already enquired about signing James Garner from Manchester United as the Whites look to land more midfielders this summer. 

Leeds wasted little time getting their first deal of the window across the line. Jesse Marsch’s men signed Brenden Aaronson to bolster their ranks in attacking midfield.

But it is imperative that Leeds sign at least one central midfielder. And one of the names they have been linked with is Garner. The 21-year-old has enjoyed a brilliant campaign, helping Nottingham Forest to promotion.

 Everton and Leicester City have entered the race to sign the Red Devils’ academy graduate heading into the summer. 

Everton survived the threat of relegation by the skin of their teeth. Having retained their Premier League status, the Toffees will be keen to push on and move up the standings next season, which will prompt them to strengthen their roster in the summer. And the midfield department is undoubtedly an area where they can do with more quality.

Allan is likely to leave Everton in the summer, while Andre Gomes could also be moved on after an underwhelming season. Given Fabian Delph’s injury record, it makes sense for Frank Lampard to sign another midfielder who can partner with Abdoulaye Doucoure. There is interest in Brazilian prodigy Eric Ramires, while Manchester United’s James Garner is also a target.