Just when you thought West Ham were starting to find a settled midfield with the impressive duo of Mateus Fernandes and homegrown Freddie Potts, a new name has appeared on Nuno Espírito Santo’s wanted list.
Earlier today, in his latest transfer update, West Ham insider ExWHUEmployee revealed that Nuno is keen to sign Everton midfielder James Garner.
The 24-year-old, a product of Manchester United’s youth system, has been sensational since former Irons boss David Moyes returned to Everton last season.
The versatile Garner has been deployed in several positions by Moyesie, who is understandably eager to keep the midfielder at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Contract Uncertainty and Transfer Links
Rumours are rife that Garner’s Toffees contract is set to expire at the end of this season, meaning he could be available on a free transfer. Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest and now West Ham have all been linked with a move for the player.
But before anyone gets too carried away with talk of his Everton departure, it’s worth noting that Moyes himself has downplayed reports of an expiring deal.
“I don’t know if he’s in the last year of his contract. I’m sure there will be a clause in there where we’ve got him, so I couldn’t even answer that question,” Moyes admitted.
It’s hard to tell whether that sounds more like hope than certainty from the former Hammers gaffer, but either way, this particular transfer rumour feels a long way off – and almost impossible to pull off in January