Pranav Nair
Transfer News: Manchester United starlet James Garner wanted by Stoke and Nottingham Forest
According to The Daily Mail, Stoke City and Nottingham Forest are leading the race to land promising Manchester United starlet James Garner.
Nicknamed the ‘next Michael Carrick’, the 20-year-old came through the ranks at Old Trafford, before going on to make his first-team debut. He has so far made seven appearances for the senior side.
The youngster was initially sent out on loan to Championship side Watford last summer but failed to play regularly at Vicarage Road and was recalled in January. He was then immediately loaned out to another Championship side, Nottingham Forest where he enjoyed more success. With four goals in 20 games, his performances left an excellent impression on Forest boss Chris Hughton. (h/t Mirror)
According to the report, United are open to sending the player out on loan once again. A move to another Premier League side is not forthcoming and another dip into the lower leagues looks to be the best bet. The player, for his part, enjoyed his time with Forest and could prefer to return.
It is clear that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer rates the youngster highly. After all, it was he who gave Garner his nickname. Despite being included in United’s pre-season squad, he does not appear to have enough of an impact to play a role at Old Trafford this season.
While Garner still has a long way to go before he can fill Carrick’s boots, he is certainly on the right track. Another season in the second tier will only help him improve his game further with regular playing time. Another excellent spell at the City Ground will hold him in good stead at Old Trafford.
He has certainly attracted much interest from a number of clubs. The likes of Brighton & Hove Albion, Norwich City and Scottish champions Rangers are also interested in his services. Where exactly he will eventually end up remains to be seen.
More Manchester United News
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- Raphael Varane and Jadon Sancho are set to undergo Manchester United fitness programme
- Transfer News: Newcastle and Aston Villa eye loan deal for Manchester United ace Axel Tuanzebe
Garner’s imminent exit could come in the midst of United needing another central midfielder. That could especially be the case should Paul Pogba depart the club this summer. Whether Garner’s move is an indication that Pogba will stay or that United have a replacement lined up remains to be seen.
