This Everton Star Is No Longer Wanted By Manchester United: Why Should They Renew His Contract? | OneFootball

James Garner’s contract at Everton runs out at the end of the season, and recent talk suggested a possible return to Manchester United. Reports from journalist Dean Jones reported this news, but the situation has turned around.

Christopher Vivell, who leads recruitment at Old Trafford, decided that United would not sign the 24-year-old midfielder again. This decision ends any early suggestion of a reunion, and it leaves Everton to focus on where they stand with the player’s future.

Manchester United won’t sign Everton midfielder James Garner

The Englishman grew up in United’s academy, and Manchester United promoted him into the first-team group, where he made seven senior appearances. He later pushed for a transfer in 2022 because he wanted regular football at a high level, and Everton provided that path.

Since joining the Merseyside club, Garner has played 97 matches and scored eight goals, and his reliability in different central midfield roles makes him valuable. He prefers sitting deep and organising attacks, but he can shift into other central roles or even fill in at left-back when required.

Everton now face a simple but significant decision. They will either offer him terms that match his value in the squad, or they risk losing a player who settled into a consistent role under challenging circumstances.

While talking about Garner’s future, the transfer insider said, “Garner is having a good time of it recently, but in terms of actually joining Man Utd, I don’t think that moment is coming. The way the club are building and evolving would not really lead me to believe that they are looking into it too seriously.

“Of course, they have an awareness of his situation, and I can see why there would be speculation around it. I think you could even make a case that he would be very helpful for them at the moment.

“They do appreciate him and have always known of his potential, obviously. But Everton would like him to stay on, other clubs are watching on, and – given where Man Utd are heading transfer-wise in 2026 – I just don’t think there will be too much focus on it.”

Why do the Toffees need to renew him?

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 26: James Garner of Everton warms up prior to the Premier League match between Everton and Tottenham Hotspur at Hill Dickinson Stadium on October 26, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Everton rely on James Garner’s consistent influence in midfield, and his growth since arriving has shown clear worth across different roles. Meanwhile, his ability to hold structure, recycle possession, and push the tempo gives the side balance in difficult matches. Moreover, Garner always stays available, works consistently, and adapts without fuss, which makes him a dependable part of the squad.

The Toffees need to offer him the best terms as the Englishman is so important for the side. So, it is a no-brainer that Everton have to renew his contract at all costs. Meanwhile, earlier reports revealed that Everton want to sign Nathan Aké.