Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy has publicly advised Everton star James Garner to make a swift decision on his future, amid growing speculation that Manchester United are keen on re-signing him.
From Carrington to Merseyside: Garner's Career Path
James Garner, a product of Manchester United's famed Carrington academy, was once tipped for a bright future at Old Trafford. His successful loan spell at Nottingham Forest, where he played a pivotal role in securing their Premier League promotion in 2022, heightened expectations. However, Erik ten Hag sanctioned his sale to Everton later that year for a deal that could reach £15 million, after Garner made only a handful of first-team appearances for the Red Devils.
Now 24, the versatile player has flourished on Merseyside and is enjoying his finest top-flight campaign to date. Operating effectively as a box-to-box midfielder, right-back, and left-back, his performances have been a key factor in Everton's rise to eighth in the Premier League table.
A Standout Performance Sparks Praise
Garner's quality was on full display during Everton's 2-0 away victory at Nottingham Forest on Tuesday night. He opened the scoring with a superb finish and later provided a brilliant assist for Thierno Barry's goal.
Analysing the match on BBC's Match of the Day, Danny Murphy was effusive in his praise. "He's been terrific and today was arguably his best performance of the season," Murphy stated. He highlighted Garner's technical ability, intelligence, and versatility, noting his capacity to score from range and his defensive diligence.
Murphy expressed particular astonishment at the player's contractual status, saying, "He's got to get his contract sorted. He's out of contract at the end of the season which is unbelievable really." He pointed out that while teammates like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall often grab headlines, Garner's consistent contributions are invaluable.
Manchester United's Midfield Search
Garner's impressive form and contract situation have reportedly put him on the radar of his former club. With new manager Ruben Amorim seeking a cost-effective midfield addition in the January window, Garner presents an attractive option. Everton do hold an option to extend his deal by a further year, which complicates any potential move.
United's midfield shortlist is understood to be extensive. Aside from Garner, the club is also monitoring former Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, now at Atletico Madrid, and ex-Wolves captain Ruben Neves, who is keen on a Premier League return from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.
However, other primary targets such as Elliott Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), and Carlos Baleba (Brighton) are unlikely to be available until the summer transfer window, increasing the focus on more immediate solutions like Garner.
The situation adds an intriguing subplot to the start of 2026. Manchester United travel to face fierce rivals Leeds United on Sunday, January 4th, while on the same day, James Garner's Everton will host Brentford at Goodison Park.
