Dean Henderson is reportedly drawing close to a loan move to Nottingham Forest.
The newly-promoted Premier League club are expecting first choice Brice Samba to leave for Nantes this summer. It means Steve Cooper needs to find a replacement, and he has targeted the disgruntled Henderson.
The goalkeeper played just three times for Manchester United last season and has become frustrated with a lack of game time. After a switch to Newcastle in January failed to materialise, while Ajax showed interest, now might be the perfect time for Henderson to move on.
READ MORE: Manchester United goalkeeper Dean Henderson wanted by Nottingham Forest
Forest’s interest has provided a lifeline for the England international. However, his move to the City Ground may mean James Garner will not be able to return there, on loan at least.
The midfielder had a terrific season with the club last season, helping them to promotion during his temporary stay. Forest fans, and indeed Cooper, himself are keen to see him back in Nottingham.
But Premier League rules could prevent that from happening. If Henderson secures a season-long loan, as has been reported, it means Garner will not be able to join Forest.
Regulations say that a club is not allowed to have more than four loan players registered and that no more than one player can be loaned to them from a singular club. It means Garner would either have to find another loan club, or fight for his place at United.
With a plethora of midfielders leaving Old Trafford this summer, and given his form last season, many have tipped the 21-year-old to earn a place in Erik ten Hag ’s plans. The player himself may decide that he would prefer a crack at breaking into the first team.
However, there is yet still a way that Garner can secure a loan move back to Forest. A loophole in the rules means that if a club (Team A) secures a player from another side (Team B) on loan with a future fee agreed, then a second player from Team B can still be brought in on a ‘pure’ loan.
Several reports claim that United are intending to agree a future purchase fee with Forest for Henderson at around the £20m mark. This may allow Garner to return to Forest again on loan. But if Henderson’s move has no fee attached, then Garner’s hand may be forced.
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