Man Utd: 97-game star 'surprised Ten Hag wants to sell him' at Old Trafford

Manchester United ace James Garner is ‘surprised’ that Erik ten Hag is willing to sanction his Old Trafford exit ahead of the transfer deadline, according to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook.

The Red Devils have made a woeful start to the campaign, having suffered back-to-back defeats at the hands of Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford, and boss ten Hag can make alterations to his squad ahead of the September 1 cut-off point.

Garner has returned to Manchester United after spending last season on loan with Nottingham Forest.

However, having played a key role in Steve Cooper’s side heading back into the Premier League for the first time in 23 years, it appears his days at Old Trafford may be numbered.

That is because, according to The Athletic, Manchester United are open to permanent offers and several Premier League clubs are showing an interest.

The report suggests the Red Devils are seeking £14million while Everton, Southampton, Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur are keeping tabs on the seven-cap England under-21 international.

It is understood that Manchester United football director John Murtough put Garner, who has entered the final two years of his £20,000-per-week contract, up for sale.

Crook understands that Garner is shocked that Manchester United are open to offloading him ahead of the transfer window slamming shut.

However, the talkSPORT reporter believes the Red Devils’ stance emphasises that they need to cash-in on players in order to welcome fresh faces.

Crook told GIVEMESPORT: “He’s been a bit surprised that United are willing to let him go at all, let alone on a permanent transfer.

“But I guess it shows they need to raise funds for this rebuild.”

Following a change in the dugout, thanks to the summer