Manchester United is interested in re-signing a former academy graduate, whose contract expires next summer and could join on a free transfer! He was once hailed as Carrick's successor.

According to transfer expert Graeme Bailey, Manchester United plans to acquire Everton midfielder James Garner next summer. This English midfielder, developed in United's youth academy, was once seen as the "successor to Carrick." He was highly promising under Solskjaer but didn’t make a breakthrough, spending loan spells at Watford and Nottingham Forest before eventually moving to Everton for £9 million.

United’s key area for overhaul next year is midfield, with Premier League players like Adam Walton, Elliott Anderson, and Carlos Baleba already on their scouting list. Compared to them, Garner offers great value; his contract expires at the end of June next year, and United is considering signing him on a free transfer.

Under the guidance of David Moyes, Garner has made significant progress in his career. Manchester United believes his versatility across multiple positions could make him an important asset in the squad for Ruben Amorim or any potential new manager.

This 24-year-old English player has performed well not only in midfield but also at left-back this season. In the current Premier League campaign, Garner boasts an 88% passing accuracy, nearly 60% success in duels, and averages 5 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 3 clearances per game, contributing 2 goals for his team.

Moreover, he could join on a free transfer, which starkly contrasts with the high prices of other Premier League midfielders. Brighton’s Baleba is valued at £120 million, Crystal Palace’s Walton might cost £80 million, and although United believes they can strike a deal for £60 million, the club’s transfer department often faces challenges in such negotiations.

Rumors suggest that United met with the "CAA Stellar agency" this week, which represents England international Elliott Anderson. However, Nottingham Forest may demand a £70 million transfer fee. United estimates a fair value for these midfielders between £50 million and £60 million, but the selling clubs are unlikely to agree to such prices.

Manchester United needs to improve both the quality and quantity of their midfield options. Casemiro is approaching 34, and with his contract expiring next summer, his renewal remains uncertain. Signing Garner would represent a very cost-effective deal for United.

Garner has reached his career peak, but whether he will consider returning to Old Trafford on a free transfer depends on his willingness to accept a backup role. This summer, Angel Gomes, whose contract with Lille expired, was rumored to return to United but ultimately chose Marseille, where he could play regularly.

Graeme Bailey stated: "Manchester United is well aware of Garner’s situation and has been monitoring their academy graduate closely. I heard he received excellent evaluations in the club’s transfer reports. Under Moyes’ leadership, Garner had a standout season at Everton, attracting interest from several clubs including United."

Garner’s agent might be leveraging Manchester United’s reputation to negotiate better contract terms or attract other potential buyers. Although United remains a high-profile club internationally, it is not necessarily the first choice for players when considering transfers.

British media revealed this week that United were close to signing Ipswich’s Liam Draper for nearly £30 million in the summer window. However, after Chelsea’s intervention, Draper chose Stamford Bridge for Champions League football. United then had to spend more than double that amount, paying £74 million for Shashko.

This left the club with no funds to buy a new midfielder. Chris Wheeler and Nathan Salt from the Daily Mail commented: "United had completed 90% of the transfer, but when Draper was taken away, they had to use the midfield budget elsewhere."