According to The Athletic journalist David Ornstein, Tottenham Hotspur ‘have watched’ Manchester United midfielder James Garner in action ahead of a potential summer move.

The Lowdown: Gaining promotion

The 21-year-old spent last season out on loan at Nottingham Forest to aid his first-team development, and it’s fair to say it was a success having played a significant role in helping the Reds gain promotion to the Premier League.

During pre-season in Australia last month, the midfielder admitted that he was desperate to play regular football, something which now seems unlikely under Erik ten Hag, and it sounds like he won’t be short of potential suitors should an Old Trafford exit manifest in the weeks ahead.

The Latest: Tottenham scout Garner

Taking to Twitter, Ornstein revealed that United are willing to let Garner leave for good, and credited Tottenham with a serious interest.

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He wrote:

“Man Utd open to letting James Garner leave on permanent basis, @lauriewhitwell reports. #MUFC believed to value 21yo midfielder ~£14m. #EFC #NFFC #LUFC #SaintsFC all shown interest + #THFC have watched. Talks progressing for Bailly exit @TheAthleticUK”

The Verdict: Get it done

Antonio Conte already has plenty of squad depth in the middle of the park, but for Garner to be available for just £14m is an absolute bargain and this is a deal that Tottenham should look at getting wrapped up as quickly as possible.

The Birkenhead born-talent, dubbed ‘phenomenal’ by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, clocked up ten assists and four goals for Forest in all competitions last season, via Transfermarkt, and was a consistent threat in the final third, averaging 1.6 crosses per game.

Garner likely wouldn’t walk into the first team given his age and fight for places, but he’s got so much to offer and would flourish under the guidance of Conte, making this an opportunity he simply couldn’t refuse.