If a report from Nottinghamshire Live is believed to be true, Rangers have joined the race for in-demand Manchester United midfielder James Garner. Forest are keen to have him back for the upcoming term but are set to face fierce competition from Norwich City, Brighton & Hove Albion and the Glasgow giants.
The Red Devils sanctioned his loan move to Watford last summer after using him sporadically the season before. The youngster needed first-team minutes to develop his game but lost his place eventually following the appointment of Xisco Muñoz as the new Hornets chief. However, there was no shortage of suitors for the midfield prodigy as he spent the remainder of the campaign at Nottingham Forest. There he earned a regular status and fired in 4 goals in 20 league appearances.
Garner’s excellence did not get unnoticed and the interest from Premier League speaks volumes about the progression made over the past few months. United would be more than happy to loan him out but, at the same time, must ensure that the minutes are assured in the middle of the park.
Norwich, meanwhile, are closing in on Billy Gilmour on a season-long loan and therefore, might shift their sights elsewhere in order to strengthen the other areas. The Seagulls, on the other hand, have parted ways with Davy Pröpper and the void left by the Dutchman could be filled up by the 20-year-old at least for the upcoming term. Graham Potter is hailed for an exciting brand of football and his preference to promote young talents would help the Englishman grow his game at the south coast.
Why Rangers Should Still Chase Garner
Rangers might find it tricky to lure in James Garner north of the border, but the hunt for a young midfielder is still on despite failing to bring Gilmour back at Ibrox. Although they have roped in Nnamdi Ofoborh on a Bosman, the lack of first-team football last season might restrict his minutes with Ryan Jack set to return to action after overcoming the injury nightmare. Steven Davis is still going strong in his mid-thirties, however, the future looks uncertain for Glen Kamara following a stellar EURO 2020 display for Finland. Joe Aribo has been a transfer target for Galatasaray and the Bears must do everything to keep hold of the ex-Charlton star beyond the ongoing summer window.
Having said that, the crisis at the centre of the pitch might intensify with time. The Light Blues need to retain the balance as well as quality all over the pitch and for that to happen they need a strong squad capable of coping up with the fixture congestion in the latter part of the season. Moreover, the magnetism of European football might make the deal happen in the due course of time.
