Manchester United Weigh Surprise Return for James Garner as Midfield Plans Take Shape
Manchester United are exploring an unexpected move to bring James Garner back to Old Trafford as Ruben Amorim begins shaping his midfield ahead of the January transfer window.
The club are assessing whether a cut price deal for the Everton midfielder could ease growing concerns in the center of the pitch, with United short on numbers and direction after recent injuries and international departures.
Garner has been one of Everton’s most consistent performers this season and his influence was clear in November when he helped the Toffees secure a 1–0 Premier League win over United. That display, combined with his contract situation, has pushed him back onto United’s radar.
The 24-year-old came through United’s academy before leaving permanently in 2022. His current Everton deal runs until the end of the season, although the Merseyside club hold an option to extend by twelve months and are already in talks over a longer contract. United see the situation as a potential opportunity rather than a priority signing.
Amorim’s wider midfield plan also includes Nottingham Forest and England midfielder Elliot Anderson, whom United are monitoring with a view to a summer move rather than an immediate January push.
Garner’s development has been steady rather than spectacular, but this season he has grown into a leadership role at Everton. Operating deeper in midfield, he has dictated tempo, protected the back line, and shown maturity in high pressure moments, traits United currently lack.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, particularly in matches against stronger opposition where Everton have relied on his discipline and awareness to stay competitive.
Everton’s win over United in November was a reference point internally. Garner’s positioning disrupted United’s buildup, while his composure on the ball prevented momentum swings during key phases of the match.
That performance reinforced the view that he has progressed beyond a squad option into a reliable Premier League starter.
While Garner is seen as a short term stabiliser, Anderson represents the long term ambition. The Forest midfielder has become a regular for England under Thomas Tuchel and played a significant role in their qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
United admire his mobility, intensity, and ability to influence games in both halves, though Forest remain protected by a contract running until 2029.
Amorim has publicly acknowledged that United are open to the winter market, but only for players who align with the club’s long term vision. That stance suggests any January move would be measured rather than reactive.
United’s current shortage has been worsened by AFCON call ups and a hamstring injury to captain Bruno Fernandes, leaving the squad stretched during a critical phase of the season.
Whether United act now or wait until summer, the interest in Garner and Anderson underlines a clear shift in recruitment strategy. Amorim is prioritising reliability, tactical intelligence, and long term value as he looks to rebuild United’s midfield from the inside out.