Reds closing in on a new loan deal for Garner

FOREST PURSUIT OF UNITED MIDFIELDER SET TO PAY OFF IF HE SIGNS NEW DEAL

MIDFIELDER James Garner is said to be close to securing a return to Nottingham Forest on loan from Manchester United.

The 20-year-old impressed during his spell at the City Ground in the second half of last season, playing a key role for Chris Hughton’s side.

The Reds have been keen to get him back for the 2021-22 campaign, but have faced plenty of competition, including from Derby County and Stoke City.

Swansea City, Sheffield United, Brighton & Hove Albion, Norwich

City and Rangers have all also been linked.

However, Forest are “closing in on a deal” to bring him back, according to The Athletic – and he could put pen to paper before next week’s Carabao Cup tie against Wolves.

Garner is said to be “in advanced negotiations” with his parent club over a new contract, with a loan switch to the Reds expected to follow.

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said at his press conference yesterday ahead of tomorrow’s game against Southampton: “I would definitely think Jimmy will go on loan, that’s more or less done. He’s done really well in pre-season and really impressed me.”

Garner made 20 appearances in the Garibaldi last season, having joined in January, all but one of those coming in the starting 11. He also weighed in with four goals.

The Reds have been short of options in the centre of the pitch, with Ryan Yates and Jack Colback the first-choice pairing so far.

Forest have made three signings – Ethan Horvath, Philip Zinckernagel and Jordi Oseitutu.

They have little more than a week left to complete their business before the summer transfer window closes.