Everton are reportedly showing an interest in James Garner as the Manchester United midfielder faces a big summer at Old Trafford.
Garner will return to United this summer aiming to secure a place in Erik ten Hag’s first team next season, having impressed during his loan spell at Nottingham Forest. The 21-year-old was a key part in Steve Cooper’s side winning promotion to the Premier League, setting up the decisive goal in the play-off final at Wembley.
The England Under-21 international will hope his displays have earned him a shot at United next season, and he will be aiming to carry his form over into pre-season as the Reds begin life under their new manager. Should Ten Hag decide he isn’t ready though, Garner could head out on loan once again.
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And, according to The Atheltic, Everton are among the clubs eyeing up a potential deal. Frank Lampard will be looking to make major improvements to his side after their brush with relegation this season.
Leicester City, Leeds and Southampton are also said to be interested. Forest will of course be in the running as well as they begin life back in the top tier.
Elsewhere, United look as though they could miss out on the signing of Hugo Ekitike, with Newcastle reportedly edging closer to securing a move for the Reims striker. United are among a host of clubs to have been linked with the 19-year-old, with Arsenal and Chelsea having also been touted.
Ekitike was involved in 14 goals in just 24 Ligue 1 appearances this season, and has been likened to Kylian Mbappe in some quarters. His rise to prominence has seen him attracting interest from across Europe.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano though, it’s Newcastle who look to be closing in on a deal. The Magpies have been tipped to sew up a deal worth around €35million, with the teenager set to arrive at St James’ Park on a five-year deal.
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