Newcastle United needed a midfielder this summer, but now so more than ever. Newcastle have lost Jonjo Shelvey for the best part of 2022, and Manchester United’s £14million price tag on James Garner has got to convince Eddie Howe.
Shelvey, 30, has been forced to undergo hamstring surgery and will be sidelined for much of the first half of the season. Newcastle were already lacking in options at the base of the midfield, with Bruno better further forward.
Newcastle need a robust, tough-tackling midfielder that can come in for Shelvey – and compete with him when Shelvey is back. Also, a player that can replace Shelvey in years to come, given he turns 31 in February of next year.
Garner ticks all those boxes. The 21-year-old is back at Manchester United but has remained an unused substitute in the first two games under Erik ten Hag, despite United’s obvious deficiencies in the middle of the park so far.
Garner price tag has got to convince Newcastle; Tottenham interested
Reports claim that Manchester United have decided to cash in on Garner, if they receive offers of £14million. The England Under-21 international has returned to Old Trafford, after shining on loan at Nottingham Forest.
Joining Forest as a boy, he has become a man after 69 appearances in the Championship. A crucial part of a side that saw Forest gain promotion. Reports state that Tottenham have even tabled an offer to Manchester United.
Garner is able to play as a holding midfielder, or a box-to-box midfielder. He did more of the latter at Forest, having a hand in 18 goals during his 69 games. He also offers ability from set-pieces and Newcastle should consider him.
Garner fits the bill. Young, and can be a long-term replacement for Shelvey. His price tag is easily affordable for Newcastle, gives them a homegrown player, and adds depth in the Shelvey role. What a signing he would be.
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