After the disappointment of the Ruben Amroim era, this result has sparked a renewed sense of optimism among the United faithful, with their attention now firmly focused on qualifying for the Champions League. There is also talk of handing over the former England international to the job full-time if caretaker manager Michael Carrick is able to get United back into the top four (or maybe top five, depending on the results of the coefficient).
There is a lot for the United bosses to think about going forward, but one of the things they will be looking to do is secure the signature of one of the Premier League’s most underrated players. Furthermore, if they play their cards right, England’s record champions won’t have to spend a single penny on transfer fees, given that the player in question is nearing the end of his contract. It remains to be seen whether Everton will have another year’s option, but his contract is set to expire in the summer, according to the Toffees website.
James Garner is a product of United’s academy and, after several loan spells, will join Everton permanently in 2022. Since then, the midfield general has gone from strength to strength, with manager David Moyes recently tipping him for a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.
The positive thing for United is that Garner is only 24 years old and has plenty of room to develop. Additionally, whoever is in charge next season, given the current state of United’s squad, it is likely that they will need several midfield reinforcements.
United are said to be most likely to sign Carlos Baleva to replace Casemiro, who is currently on his way out. Brighton are unlikely to let him go cheap, meaning Garner could be a cost-effective option to strengthen their ranks.
According to statistics provided by FBRef, Garner averages around three tackles per 90 minutes and is also responsible for two clearances in each match. While he may not be able to slide into United’s starting XI right away, Garner is a utility option who could help share the load, especially if United find a route back to Europe.
