Everton now 'at front of the queue' for £14m star at Goodison Park

Everton are ‘at the front of the queue’ to land Manchester United ace James Garner but the Goodison Park outfit are facing stiff competition from Southampton and ‘half of the Premier League’, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Toffees have spent more than £30million on bolstering their squad since the summer window opened for business, but boss Frank Lampard could welcome further reinforcements to Merseyside ahead of the 11pm deadline on September 1.

According to The Athletic, Everton have entered discussions with Manchester United over a move for central midfielder Garner.

The report suggests the Toffees are facing competition from several Premier League clubs – including Southampton, Leicester City and Tottenham Hotspur – but Lampard, who was appointed as the Merseyside giants’ manager in January, is keen to strengthen his options in the middle of the park.

Garner is back at Manchester United after spending last season on loan with Nottingham Forest, where he won promotion to the Premier League via the Championship play-offs.

But, although his £20,000-per-week contract is not due to expire until the summer of 2024, it appears the 21-year-old’s days at Old Trafford are numbered.

That is because it is understood that Red Devils chief Erik ten Hag has decided Garner should be allowed to leave if their £14million valuation is met ahead of the deadline.

Jones understands that Manchester United’s stance has led to numerous clubs wanting to secure Garner’s services.

The transfer insider believes Everton, along with Southampton, are in pole position to strike a late agreement.

When asked who is leading the way for Garner’s signature, Jones told GIVEMESPORT: “It’s really hard to tell because there is genuinely half