In-demand Rangers-linked midfielder James Garner has rejected a new deal at Man United in order to keep his options open, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.
Garner has made seven appearances for United’s first team and had time out on loan at both Watford and Nottingham Forest last season.
In April, his agent, Steven Beck, claimed that the Gers tried to bring his client to Ibrox in January only to miss out to Forest [Stretty News].
In the same interview, he asserted that Rangers retained interest ahead of the current transfer window.
No formal approach appears to have been made since then but there is plenty of speculation about Garner’s future, given that he’s only under contract until next summer.
On Thursday afternoon, O’Rourke claimed United have tried to get the 20-year-old to extend his stay at Old Trafford but that he has rejected a new deal in order to keep his options open.
O’Rourke then added that, despite interest from several EFL Championship clubs, United will not sanction a loan exit unless the player signs an extension.
If Rangers have indeed been interested in Garner for some time, this news may put them on high alert.
The Gers have already snapped up one talented youngster from the Red Devils this summer in Charlie McCann and Garner’s contract situation has United on the back foot.
It would be naive to think it would be easy to snap up a player who will be inundated with offers and at this stage, even a loan looks out of the question.
However, if the England youth international’s contract situation doesn’t change, there’s a potential bargain here for someone either in January or next summer and the Light Blues should at least throw their hat into the ring.
Many fans want Rangers to strengthen in midfield right away, but the club appear to have been dealt a blow in their reported pursuit of Joey Veerman.
