James Garner is enjoying a decent run lately. His first senior England cap during the international break has done more than just boost his personal profile. It has also reignited transfer interest from Premier League rivals.
Aston Villa have now joined Nottingham Forest in tracking the 25‑year‑old, according to former Villa scout Mick Brown.
Garner signed a new deal with Everton in January, committing his future to the club until 2030. That extension ended any chance of losing him on a free transfer, but it has not deterred interested parties.
Brown: ‘Interest in Garner certainly hasn’t gone away’
Speaking to Football Insider, Brown explained that Villa had been monitoring Garner even before his contract renewal.
“Interest in Garner certainly hasn’t gone away,” Brown said. “Aston Villa were spoken about when there was the possibility of him leaving Everton for free, and I’m told they were keeping an eye on the situation. Obviously, he ended up signing a new contract at Everton, but the interest is still there.”
The former scout noted that Garner’s England performance only strengthened Villa’s conviction. “They will have watched him closely when he played for England, and by all accounts, he was very impressive in that game and did well for himself. So when there’s a player like that, doing well for his club and doing well for England, Villa will feel he could make a difference in their side.”
Brown acknowledged that a deal would be difficult. “It won’t be easy for them because Everton don’t want to lose him, so it could depend on the money involved and what Everton are asking for. We all know the situation Villa are in, so they could be priced out of a move, but Emery wants to add to his team and Garner would be a good option.”
Previously, James Garner has been linked to Nottingham Forest as well.
Everton hold all the cards
Jmaes Garner has been outstanding this season. In 34 appearances (all starts), he has scored three goals and provided six assists, anchoring David Moyes’ midfield. With Idrissa Gueye ageing and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall offering a different profile, Everton have no one else who can both anchor the midfield and spark the attack.
David Moyes values James Garner as a crucial part of his first‑team plans as the club strives for progress after a strong season. Selling him would be a massive step backwards for a club finally projecting stability under The Friedkin Group and settling into Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Everton hold all the cards. Garner is under contract until 2030. Unless an irresistible bid arrives, the Toffees should shut the door early. Letting this linger through the summer would only unsettle a squad finally finding its feet and targeting European qualification.
