Manchester United have made a surprising decision about youngster James Garner. According to John Percy of the Telegraph, he could leave Old Trafford this summer either on loan or, unexpectedly, on a permanent deal.
This move will come as a shock to many United fans, with Garner considered to have a bright future in Manchester. The Englishman was expected to return to Carrington this summer to be judged by new manager Erik ten Hag, with it being a real possibility that he could stay and become part of the first-team squad. That could potentially have changed, however, with there now being a chance that he will join Nottingham Forest on a permanent deal this summer.
Last Word on Football understands that Forest are particularly keen on Garner, but it may be a challenge for the two parties to come together on a valuation of the player. It could depend on the Red Devils’ summer incomings in midfield, with all signs pointing to this deal dragging on until late in the transfer window. Premier League loan rules make this move especially complicated with Forest also pursuing a move for United’s Dean Henderson.
James Garner Could Join Nottingham Forest on a Permanent Transfer
Success on Loan Resulted in Excitement About His Future
James Garner has seen much success on loan since joining Nottingham Forest last year.
The youngster moved there in January of 2021 after struggling under multiple managers with Watford, and made an immediate impact. He quickly became a mainstay in the centre of their midfield, and as such returned for a second spell at the club during the 2021/22 campaign.
Read more: Manchester United and Manchester City locked in battle for Premier League star
This would go on to be a very successful season for Forest. They recently won promotion to the Premier League through the Championship playoffs, and as a result they have gained new financial power.
James Garner vs. Huddersfield:
100% ground duels won (5/5)
100% tackles won (4/4)
100% dribbles completed
88% pass accuracy
61 total touches
5 ball recoveries
3/4 long passes completed
3 chances created
1 big C createdPlayed a key role in the win and promotion. 🔴👏 pic.twitter.com/CYSVKCXLpM
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) May 29, 2022
Being in the English top flight now means not only would the Red Devils consider Forest a suitable destination for Garner on loan for the 2022/23 campaign, but also that they could potentially afford a permanent move for the 21-year-old. This would be quite the deal if they could pull it off, as it is highly likely the United will greatly value him, but according to Jon Percy’s report, it is certainly a possibility as he weighs up his future.
