Nottingham Forest are taking a look at Manchester United midfielder James Garner, The Athletic has claimed.
The Reds had the England under-21 international on loan for the last 18 months and he’s a wanted man.
Southampton are keen, with Everton also in the mix to sign the central midfielder before the window closes.
Garner claimed 10 assists for Forest as they won promotion last season, scoring four goals too.
He struck up a sizeable rapport with the club’s fan base and supporters would dearly love him back.
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The United academy graduate was on the bench for Erik ten Hag’s first two games in charge but was left out against Liverpool on Monday.
Now, his future lies elsewhere, with United willing to sell the player for a fee of around £14 million.
Garner is a future star and with Steve Cooper looking at a couple more players to finalise his squad, a return could be on the cards.
Forest will be facing competition for his signature and they may have to move quickly to complete this deal.
Everton and Southampton will provide decent alternatives to a move to Forest, although Garner is likely to fancy a City Ground return.
Last season, Roy Keane praised Garner following some exploits in the FA Cup. He labelled him ‘technically very good‘ after some sound performances in the competition.
Forest taking a look at Garner
With Cheikhou Kouyate leaving last night’s game against Grimsby through injury, perhaps another midfielder would be sought.
The Reds have already added Lewis O’Brien, Orel Mangala and Remo Freuler this summer.
Furthermore, Ryan Yates, Jack Colback and Cafu are all still on the books on Trentside.
Some might feel that Forest are well-stocked in midfield right now but there’s no reason to abandon the future.
Garner would be a wonderful signing for the Reds and he could kick on even further during the next few years.
Signing Garner looks like something that would prove quite easy and he wouldn’t cost a fortune.
United are ready to cash in and Forest are right to stay in the mix to secure one of England’s burgeoning young talents.