Manchester United had former star James Garner among their list of potential targets for a midfield addition, but it appears that he will be staying with current side Everton after all.
James Garner has signed a new long-term deal at Everton after snubbing a possible return to Manchester United. The Red Devils had identified the 24-year-old as a potential signing as they aim to sign a new midfielder.
Other targets included Brighton‘s Carlos Baleba and Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson. A move for Garner is now a non-mover, however, with the ex-United prospect having penned a new contract with Everton until 2030.
Speaking after his extended stay at Hill Dickinson Stadium was confirmed, Garner said: “I’m really excited to commit my future to Everton. I’m very grateful for all the support and all the love I’ve had over the past three-and-a-half years, but it’s just the start.
“I’ve seen the progress we’ve made recently. Now I want to be part of that progress and get us back to where the club deserves to be.
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“I feel like I’m now a part of the club and I’m hoping to be a part of it for a long time. I’ve got family members who are all Evertonians, so I know exactly the passion and, like I’ve just said, what it means to play for such a massive football club like this.”
He added: “I’m still only 24. I feel like I’ve been through a lot of experiences. I want to keep improving. I think the obvious one would be goals and assists, which is the one everyone wants to get better at.
“As well as that, I want to keep that overall consistency, and be a player who other people can look to as a leader, setting the right examples.
“The manager has really trusted me – and what he asks of me to do on a game day, it suits exactly how I play. He’s been really important since he’s come in.”
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Everton boss David Moyes added: “We’re really pleased to have Jimmy commit his long-term future to Everton.
“He is a player who has developed hugely during his time at Everton. He’s taking on more responsibility and we’re now seeing a really important midfielder, with the versatility to play in other positions, as well as someone who is turning into a leader for us.
“He is still only 24 years of age, and we hope he will continue to progress while playing a big part in pushing us forward in the future.”
Garner joined Everton from Man Utd in 2022 for a fee of £9million. He has since gone on to make 108 appearances for the side, scoring five goals.
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