Everton determined to keep James Garner

Everton are determined to stop James Garner from leaving as a free agent next summer, according to Football Insider.

Garner is out of contract at Everton at the end of next season, and the Merseyside club are doing everything they can to convince him to put pen to paper on a new deal.

Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “Yeah, well, look, he’s definitely going to be of interest because of his contract situation at Everton.

“I’m sure Everton will be doing everything they can to keep hold of him. He’s been one of their best players this season and has even been tipped for an England call-up.

“He’s such a versatile player, obviously can play in midfield but has filled in at right-back and left-back, and that shows his importance to the Everton team.

“He’s got the likes of Newcastle, Villa, Forest, West Ham, all interested in Garner but I’m sure Everton will be doing everything they possibly can to tie him down to a new deal.

“They’ve obviously tied down some of their other key players like Pickford and Tarkowski to new contracts so I’m sure they’ll be looking to do similar with Garner.”