Former Nottingham Forest loanee James Garner has completed a deadline day move to Everton.
The midfielder was a target for the Reds this summer. But with Manchester United needing time to make a decision on his future, and Forest keen to get signings in quickly, the prospect of a City Ground return began to turn increasingly slim.
And the 21-year-old has now penned a four-year deal at Goodison Park, joining for an undisclosed fee. He became the eighth new addition for boss Frank Lampard.
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Garner had two separate loan spells on the banks of the Trent. He spent the second half of the 2020/21 term with the Reds, having initially been at Watford.
He then returned last summer, and played an integral role in promotion success under Steve Cooper. Garner says he will draw on that experience, following his summer switch.
“I’m made up to sign for Everton. It’s a huge step in my career and I want to help the team get better while progressing as a player,” Garner told evertontv. “I think Everton is the perfect place to do that. I can’t wait to get started.
“The manager (Frank Lampard) has got a real plan for the club and for me. Working with him on a daily basis is major for me. Him and his staff can take me and the team to the next level. That’s what I’m hoping for.
“My experience at Nottingham Forest last season, and how I improved as a player, has given me confidence I can perform at the highest level. I want to take that into the Premier League now and do it with Everton.”
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