According to The Sun, Preston are fighting to sign Manchester United’s James Garner on loan.
Garner, 18, is highly rated at Old Trafford, but needs to get out and play first-team football. The teenager is actually in the squad for Thursday’s game against Partizan Belgrade, but United may still plan to loan him out in January.
The midfielder has been on the United books since joining at Under-8 level, and made his Premier League debut against Crystal Palace back in February of this year.
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It’s now believed that Preston want Garner on loan, but face a battle for him. Wigan Athletic are also keen, whilst Sunderland care seeking a deal too.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will decide whether to loan him out, with high hopes for the youngster. Of course, Preston have a long history when it comes to signing United talents; David Beckham, Michael Appleton, Colin Murdock, Jon Macken, David Healy, Sam Johnstone, Marnick Vermijl, Will Keane, Ben Pearson, Liam Grimshaw and Josh Harrop all spring to mind.
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Garner move doesn’t really make sense
There may well be some truth to the rumour, but doesn’t seem likely. Firstly, it’s that classic case of a rumour involving Preston and Wigan. How many times have we seen that before?
Additionally, central midfield is one of Preston’s key areas of strength. Pearson, Paul Gallagher, Alan Browne, Brad Potts, Daniel Johnson, Tom Bayliss and Ryan Ledson can all play centrally, so adding another would be pointless.
Garner wouldn’t get the playing time he needs, as Bayliss – the club’s record signing – can’t even get a kick. What chance would Garner have in that case?
Of course, the teenager is talented, but we’re not expecting him to arrive at Deepdale any time soon.