Journalist makes transfer claim involving Southampton and Nottingham Forest loanee amid Leeds United interest

Premier League outfit Southampton are continuing to monitor Manchester United midfielder loanee James Garner ahead of a potential transfer approach in the summer, as per The Sun reporter Tom Barclay who spoke to Give Me Sport.

The 20-year-old is currently shining on a temporary spell at Championship side Nottingham Forest, impressing with the Reds during the second half of the 2020/21 campaign before arriving on a second loan from the top-tier giants last summer.

Although he struggled in the early stages of this second spell, the midfielder has been an integral part of Steve Cooper’s plans since then and has been an instrumental figure in keeping the second-tier side ticking.

Not only has he displayed an impressive range of passing, also contributing defensively, but he has also been a real threat going forward for the promotion hopefuls, recording three goals and three assists in 30 league appearances this term.

The Sun reported last week that Leeds United and the Saints are both interested in Garner after seeing him excel at the City Ground this season, also performing well for Watford in a separate temporary spell in the first half of last term.

Journalist Barclay has confirmed he’s a player currently on Ralph Hasenhuttl’s radar – and provided an update on their pursuit of the midfielder as they weigh up this potential move.

Speaking to Give Me Sport, he said: “He’s a player they’re tracking. They like him and are seeing how his progress goes.

“He’s an under-21 international who seemed to find it hard at first when he went on loan to Forest, but now he is flourishing under Steve Cooper.

“I don’t know what Manchester United’s situation is with him and how they view him long-term, but he’s one of the players Southampton