Manchester United youngster James Garner has a host of clubs interested in signing him on a loan transfer, including a possible second season on loan at Nottingham Forest.
Nottingham Forest Keen on Second Loan Transfer for United Midfielder James Garner
Midfielder Impressed on Loan and Gaining Plenty of Interest
Garner spent the first half of the 2020/21 season at Watford and showed a steady progression in his development but was more limited after a managerial change. However, it was in the last six months of the season, when on loan with Nottingham Forest, that he enjoyed a much better time.
During his short spell at the City Ground, Garner scored three goals in 19 starts for the Reds.
The 20-year-old reportedly enjoyed his time in the Midlands and, according to Paul Taylor of the Athletic, Chris Hughton is hopeful this will help the Reds in securing the 20-year-old for a second season.
It has also previously been reported that United are keen on Hughton as a manager and his role at Forest was a major factor in Garner picking the City Ground.
United academy performance manager Les Parry said in February: “James has done well getting to Forest. The manager Chris Hughton was really keen on him.
“What happened at Watford is the bane of our lives: a manager change. It is one thing that can kill loans because the new manager comes in and, the first thing he wants to do, is looking at the longer term with the players there, which is understandable.
“Although James did really well in the first part of his loan, he only played about 40 minutes in six games under the new manager so we looked around, trying to find a Championship club for him. Forest came up and were keen so we were able to negotiate the swap.
“Chris Hughton was one of the attractions for us, to be quite honest with you, with us selecting Forest. I think all of our coaches, and myself, have great respect for Chris.
“He has a great reputation for the way he treats players, which is important for us. On top of that, with him really fancying James as a player, and the fact he’s going to treat him well, educate him well, was massive in making the decision.”
His performances with a Forest side which eventually eased themselves to safety, however, have led to several clubs having an interest.
The Manchester Evening News claim that Brighton & Hove Albion and Rangers are interested, as well as newly-promoted Norwich City.
Whilst a return to Forest may seem a comfortable option, a loan to a Premier League club seems the most likely option for Garner.
The central midfielder, who is one of a number of academy products on the fringes of the Manchester United first team, will be hoping to leave a lasting impression on boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Ethan Galbraith and Dylan Levitt have both been tipped for loan exits this summer meaning Garner could find himself a squad role if he performs well in pre-season.
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