Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly planning a summer move for Everton midfielder James Garner.
The north London side are currently enjoying a strong run in Ange Postecoglou’s debut campaign, accumulating 47 points from 25 Premier League games. They remain in the hunt for a top-four spot, with just two points separating them from Aston Villa. However, a lack of depth has been an obstacle for Ange Postecoglou, which Spurs are looking to address in the summer transfer window.
According to TEAMtalk, Everton’s James Garner has emerged as a summer target for Tottenham Hotspur.
James Garner, 22, who arrived from Manchester United in the summer of 2022, played a key role at the back end of last season in ensuring Everton’s top-flight status. He has been a virtual mainstay for the Toffees this campaign, making 23 starts and one substitute appearance in the Premier League. The central midfielder has chipped in with two goals and an assist in 30 appearances across all competitions.
The report adds Spurs view Garner as Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher’s alternative ahead of the summer transfer window.
James Garner to Tottenham—Decent option?
Tottenham are understood to be in the market for a new central midfielder after failing to sign Conor Gallagher from Chelsea in January, although a move could be revived in the summer if the England international does not agree a new deal at Stamford Bridge. Gallagher’s current contract expires in 2025, and while he wants to stay at Chelsea, a lot will depend on whether the owners are willing to hand him a new deal.
While Gallagher remains a top target, Spurs have already added James Garner to their list of potential alternatives. Garner has performed extremely well for Everton, operating both as a 6 and 8 under Sean Dyche, and such versatility could make him a great fit in Ange Postecoglou’s relatively free-flowing system at Tottenham.
The England under-21 international is composed in possession, can carry the ball in frequency and distance, shoot from long range and is effective from set-pieces, whilst being tenacious in the tackle. He also works hard off the ball and covers a lot of ground for his team. Due to his attributes, Garner could be a smart replacement for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who is expected to leave Spurs at the end of the season.
With Garner’s contract at Goodison Park not expiring until 2026, Everton remain in a strong position over his future, yet their firmly established poor financial position means that they may be open to offers. So, Spurs must take advantage of the Toffees’ financial problems and table a bid for James Garner, if they fail to land Gallagher.