The 4th Official
·21 February 2024
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Yahoo sportsThe 4th Official
·21 February 2024
Tottenham Hotspur have identified Everton‘s emerging star James Garner as a potential target in the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider. They see him as an alternative to Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, whom they wish to sign.
The Spurs wanted to bolster their midfield unit and tried to acquire Gallagher in the winter window. Unfortunately, the deal didn’t materialise as the Blues didn’t want to lose the midfielder midway through the season considering his value in the squad.
James Garner is one of the most promising young talents in Europe at present. He emerged from the Manchester United academy and initially started his career as a centre-back before turning into a midfielder. He was promoted to the senior team a few years ago.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 19: James Garner of Everton looks on during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Crystal Palace at Goodison Park on February 19, 2024 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
Due to a lack of game time, the English footballer was loaned to other clubs for two consecutive seasons. Finally, in September 2022, he permanently moved to Everton on a four-year contract. In this season, he has contributed two goals and an assist in 31 games so far.
The 22-year-old is equally good in both defensive and attacking aspects of the game. He is averaging 3.1 tackles, 1.4 interceptions, 1.4 clearances, 1.2 shots, 1.3 key passes and 0.8 dribbles per game, alongside a passing accuracy of 81.9% (stats via whoscored).
Tottenham Hotspur have identified an excellent player to add to the squad. As Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is likely to leave the club following this season and the future of Giovani Lo Celso is uncertain, the club need to bring in a quality player to operate in the midfield.
If they fail to get the signature of Conor Gallagher, James Garner’s arrival won’t be a bad deal either. The latter has played in multiple midfield roles and excelled in all of them. It shows his versatility, which will make life easy for Ange Postecoglou.
However, Newcastle United are reportedly also interested in getting the possession of Garner. The clubs might have to enter into a bidding war to get the emerging midfield maestro.