Everton have now agreed a deal with Manchester United for the signing of midfielder James Garner, according to The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell.
The Lowdown: Impressive loan spell
The 21-year-old enjoyed a fantastic loan spell at Nottingham Forest last season as he helped elevate the side in their incredible promotion to the Premier League.
The U21 England international made an impressive 44 appearances for the Tricky Trees in the Championship, in which he contributed four goals and eight assists to Steve Cooper’s side.
However, returning to Old Trafford this season, the defensive midfielder has failed to play a single minute of Premier League football under manager Erik ten Hag, even being dropped from the Red Devil’s squad entirely for their previous two league matches.
The Latest: Garner to Everton…
With opportunities seemingly limited at Man United, rumours emerged linking Garner with a move away this summer.
With strong interest deriving out of Goodison Park, Whitwell has shared an update on the Toffees’ pursuit of the youngster. Taking to Twitter, the reliable journalist claimed:
“James Garner move to Everton now agreed. Initial 9m rising to 15.5m with add-ons.
“Includes sell-on clause. No buyback.”
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The Verdict: Great signing
As per Whitwell, there was ‘lots of surprise’ when news emerged of the Red Devils being willing to sell Garner this summer, so it's brilliant to see the Blues swoop in and snap him up.
United journalist Brad Cox hailed the youngster for his ‘brilliant’ loan spell at Forest, which was expected to be followed by increased opportunities at Old Trafford this season.
Luckily for Everton, their permanent offer has been accepted by United, with the absence of a buy-back clause a huge bit of business by the Toffees.
In the Championship last season, Garner averaged 2 key passes, 1.6 crosses and 1.5 through balls per game (via WhoScored), so it will be exciting to see him demonstrate his impressive passing range at Goodison Park this season.