Manchester United are intensifying their plans for a significant midfield rebuild, with former academy graduate James Garner emerging as a potential target for a January move, according to reports.
Midfield Crisis Forces United's Hand
The situation at Old Trafford has reached a critical point, with manager Ruben Amorim facing a severe shortage of options in the centre of the park. The club is confronting the prospect of a complete midfield overhaul next summer, with long-term futures of key players like Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and Kobbie Mainoo under scrutiny.
The depth issue became starkly evident last weekend at Villa Park, where centre-back Lisandro Martinez was named on the bench to cover the midfield, highlighting the alarming lack of specialised players available.
Garner Tops the Shortlist as a Cost-Effective Solution
Daily Mail Sport understands that James Garner's name is rising on United's recruitment list as they explore potential January reinforcements. The 24-year-old Everton midfielder is seen as an affordable acquisition who could complement a larger spending spree in the summer, where Newcastle's Elliot Anderson is reportedly the primary target.
Garner, who is about to enter the final six months of his current Everton contract, has impressed since leaving Old Trafford. He notably caught the eye of England selector Thomas Tuchel during Everton's recent victory at the Theatre of Dreams. Everton are negotiating a new long-term deal for the player and are hopeful of securing his future before the January market opens next week, though no significant breakthrough has been made.
From Academy to Potential Return
Garner's potential return would mark a fascinating full-circle moment. He joined United's academy at under-8 level and made his first-team debut at just 17, coming on as a 90th-minute substitute away at Crystal Palace. Having flourished away from Manchester, he is now considered a serious option to bolster United's ranks.
Manager Ruben Amorim has not ruled out January signings but has stressed the difficulty of letting players leave without adequate replacements. "It's going to be difficult for anyone to leave the club if we don't get a replacement," Amorim stated on Wednesday. "We are short. Even with the full squad we are missing something that can happen. We are a club with great responsibility... We have to win every game. No excuses."
Meanwhile, the futures of other squad members remain in flux. Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly interested in a loan move to Napoli, while striker Joshua Zirkzee is attracting interest from Italy as he seeks more minutes ahead of the World Cup.
