Nottingham Forest might have been handed a blow with regards to keeping Manchester United starlet James Garner for next season.
According to The Athletic, the midfielder could be set to go out on loan again next season – although the Red Devils would prefer him to gain Premier League experience.
Garner has excelled on loan at Forest. He checked in during January after a similar deal at Watford was terminated.
He has played 12 times for the Reds, scoring in the 1-1 draw at Derby County to write his name into East Midlands-derby folklore.
Forest fans would love to see him back on Trentside next season – although that might not be possible.
The latest report claims that United are leaning towards another loan; although one in the top-flight would be preferred.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will also run the rule over Garner during pre-season first, which is pretty standard practice following a loan being totally honest.
United’s concerns regarding Nemanja Matic and Fred won’t help Forest’s case either.
Garner could be viewed as a long-term successor to those players and if United can’t secure their summer targets, the youngster could earn a chance.
Can Forest convince United?
Garner has clearly enjoyed his football at Forest and his performances have been a joy to behold.
The telling factor will be whether or not a Premier League outfit will place their faith in a youngster for next season.
As good as Garner is, teams in the lower echelons of the Premier League are desperate to ensure survival.
As a result, they tend to fork out for players as opposed to loaning untried ones and in this case, that could help Forest.
As a club, the Reds will surely have contingency plans should a move for Garner be scuppered.
His presence in the Forest midfield has been telling though and Solskjaer’s decision will be eagerly anticipated by the club.
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