Manchester United is reportedly considering a surprising move to re-sign midfielder James Garner from Everton, just three years after selling him for approximately £9 million. The Red Devils are seeking to bolster their midfield options, as manager Ruben Amorim faces challenges with squad depth and potential departures.
The urgency for a new midfielder has increased due to the impending loss of veteran player Casemiro, who is set to depart at the end of the season. Additionally, both Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte have uncertain futures, while injuries to Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes have further complicated the situation. In a recent match against Aston Villa, defender Lisandro Martinez even filled in at midfield, underscoring the team’s current struggles.
United had previously explored various midfield targets during the summer transfer window, including Carlos Baleba from Brighton, Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace, and Angelo Stiller from Stuttgart. However, the club ultimately prioritized strengthening their attacking options, spending £218 million on three forwards instead, leaving the midfield unaddressed.
Now, according to the Daily Mail, Garner, a lifelong United supporter and former youth player, has emerged as a viable option for the January transfer window. His contractual situation with Everton, which expires in the summer, makes him an attractive and affordable target for the Manchester club. This potential acquisition could provide much-needed quality in midfield until they aim for a more significant signing, such as Elliott Anderson from Crystal Palace, in the summer.
Garner joined United as an Under-8 player in 2009 and made his first-team debut in 2018. He recorded seven appearances for the club before being loaned to Watford and Nottingham Forest. Since transferring to Everton in 2022, he has played 103 matches, scoring three goals, and notably excelled in a recent 1-0 victory over his former team.
Meanwhile, Everton is keen to secure Garner’s future by negotiating a new contract before the January transfer window opens. At Old Trafford, there may also be some outgoings, with rumors linking Mainoo to Napoli and Joshua Zirkzee potentially leaving. Amorim has emphasized that no players will depart until the club can secure reinforcements, stating, “It’s going to be hard for someone to leave the club if we don’t get a substitution. We are short. Even with the full squad we are short for something that can happen.”
As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Manchester United’s strategy to address their midfield concerns, particularly with the prospect of bringing back a familiar face in James Garner.
