Man United interest prompts Everton contract talks with versatile star

Everton’s midfield engine has rarely looked so assured. James Garner , once a promising academy talent at Manchester United , has become one of David Moyes’ most dependable performers since his £15 million move in 2022. Now, as reported by TeamTalk , the Toffees are accelerating efforts to secure the 24-year-old on a long-term contract amid rising speculation over a potential return to Old Trafford.

Garner’s development has been steady and impressive. His positional adaptability, operating effectively in central midfield but also deputising at full-back when required, has underlined his tactical intelligence and resilience. Moyes was quick to highlight this growth, saying, “I think that he’s stepped up. From the Jimmy Garner I knew over the last year or two and then obviously I had him last year, I think he stepped up again and he’s shown it. He might be good enough to make another step with England [in the senior squad] in the future.”

Garner’s early season consistency has been evident, starting all eight of Everton’s Premier League fixtures, contributing both a goal and an assist. In a squad built around discipline and intensity, he has been one of Moyes’ most reliable operators.

According to TeamTalk , Everton’s board remains confident that an agreement with Garner will be reached soon. Sources close to the club suggest there is optimism behind the scenes, with both parties keen to continue their working relationship.

Everton have already acted decisively in securing key figures. James Tarkowski and Jordan Pickford recently committed to new two-year and three-year extensions, respectively. Garner is next in line, with the club prioritising negotiations to secure his long-term future.

Reports indicate that Everton may hold a one-year extension option in Garner’s current deal. While Moyes hinted this clause could be exercised, the club’s preference is to finalise a new, longer contract that reflects his growing importance to the side. TeamTalk approached Everton for comment on the clause, but the club declined to confirm its details.

Photo IMAGO

Garner’s rise at Goodison Park has not gone unnoticed. Journalist Graeme Bailey revealed that Manchester United are “keeping a close eye” on their former midfielder’s contract situation, with a view to a possible return. It would not be the first time Old Trafford sought to re-acquire a player whose career blossomed elsewhere.

However, Everton’s stance remains firm. The Merseyside club are determined to retain Garner’s services and are prepared to reject any January approaches from United or elsewhere. The Toffees’ strategy is built around stability, and losing a homegrown leader like Garner would undermine the progress achieved under Moyes’ disciplined structure.

Garner’s maturity has made him a respected presence in the dressing room. His quiet authority, combined with his commitment to the cause, fits the Moyes mould perfectly. As one insider reportedly noted, “He’s become a standard-setter in training and matches. The team plays with more composure when he’s on the pitch.”

For Moyes, retaining players like Garner is crucial to maintaining momentum. With Everton showing greater resilience this season, a new deal would not just protect their asset financially, it would also symbolise the club’s growing confidence under the Scot’s guidance.

From an Everton supporter’s perspective, the idea of James Garner rejoining Manchester United feels like an unwelcome distraction. The midfielder has flourished on Merseyside, finding consistency and confidence that eluded him at Old Trafford. Toffees fans will remember how he arrived with questions over his readiness for top-level football, yet he has answered every doubt with maturity and determination.

Garner embodies everything Moyes wants from his team – tactical discipline, work rate, and reliability. He’s not flashy, but he’s efficient, and Everton supporters value that humility. While United’s interest is flattering, fans know returning to Old Trafford could risk him being reduced to a squad role once again, whereas at Everton , he’s a key figure and a future leader.

If the club finalises a new long-term deal, it would signal real intent from the board and reassure fans who have grown tired of losing their best players. In truth, Garner’s best footballing home right now is at Goodison Park, and supporters will be eager for the club to act quickly to ensure he stays exactly where he belongs.