Transfer News: Leeds United could target Manchester United starlet James Garner
According to Phil Hay of The Athletic on The Phil Hay Show (h/t LeedsLive), Leeds United could target Manchester United starlet James Garner in a potential transfer at the end of this season. He is currently out on a season-long loan deal at Nottingham Forest, where he has enjoyed a solid spell so far.
Leeds are interested in finalising a move for Garner, and they have identified him as a potential option for this summer. He is highly-rated by the Yorkshire-based club, which has prompted them to take the current stance. They could approach Man United as a result, although it remains to be seen whether it will be an offer for a loan or a permanent transfer.
However, the Red Devils are keen on keeping hold of the Englishman for the future. That being said, Hay did reveal that the defensive midfielder could have proposals from other interested parties for a loan as well after this term.
“One player who was mentioned to me a few weeks back was James Garner. Garner’s well-thought-of over there. Manchester United like the idea of keeping him but I think when it comes to loan options, he might have a few.”
Garner must not be sold!
It is good to know that the Mancunians do not have any plans for selling the 21-year-old at this point. We hope to see that remain the same moving forward as he has all the qualities to become a dependable player for us in the future.
The Man United loanee has four goals and eight assists to his name this season from 43 appearances across all competitions. That is a great return for someone who plays as a defensive midfielder making him an attractive prospect for the future.
What’s more, he has developed his ability to control the tempo of the game, which is something we lack in our team. One could argue that the club should give him a spot in our senior team, considering how we require defensive midfield additions to our squad this summer.
After all, Nemanja Matic will leave Old Trafford after the current campaign, while Fred and Scott McTominay have a long way to go before becoming ideal pivot options. So calls for Garner does make sense, although it would not be wise to expose him this quickly to top-flight football.
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After all, the pressure could be too much for a young talent like Garner so it would be best to slowly integrate him into the team. Hence, a loan to a fellow Premier League side like the Whites could do wonders for his progression right now.
That being said, we should reject any approaches from Jesse Marsch’s side if they plan to permanently sign the youngster this summer.
