Leeds United and Southampton are among Premier League clubs interested in signing promising Manchester United graduate James Garner this summer, The Sun report.
Garner had a terrific full season on loan with Nottingham Forest last term, registering four goals and 10 assists across all competitions. He played a key role in their promotion to the top-flight.
After an exciting loan stint, United seemed determined to keep him this campaign, but their stance has recently changed after the big-money signing of Casemiro from Real Madrid.
The Red Devils believe Garner has lesser chances of becoming a regular, and are now prepared to part ways with him if they receive a transfer package in the region of £14 million.
Leeds, Southampton as well as Tottenham Hotspur are mentioned as admirers, but none of those clubs are prepared to meet the price tag as Garner is still unproven in the Premier League.
Garner likely to leave United before transfer deadline
United started the season with Fred, Scott McTominay, Donny van de Beek and Christian Eriksen as the senior midfielders. They have now made a statement with the signing of Casemiro.
Casemiro’s arrival may not end their spending spree this summer, and it has been reported that United are still optimistic of landing long-term target Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona.
Regardless of whether that happens, Garner seems well down the pecking order at United. He has not played a single minute over the first two games despite United’s horrendous start.
Erik ten Hag has not shown any faith in the 21-year-old graduate thus far and we don’t see that changing anytime soon, particularly in the Premier League and Europa League matches.
The best option for Garner would be to part ways. Spurs are being linked with his services, but a move does not make any sense, considering new signing Yves Bissouma is already warming the bench.
Leeds and Southampton are ideal destinations for Garner if he wants Premier League minutes, but a permanent exit may depend on United lowering the price tag before the transfer deadline.
Garner has two years left on his contract with the option for another 12 months, but United need to sell him at the earliest possibility. His transfer value will drop if he stays and does not play at all.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
