Everton are yet to make a splash in the January window but there is one development that would really please the fans.
No movement in the market will certainly frustrate many at Everton given just how clear the requirements are for the Blues.
A new striker and a right-back are needed by David Moyes to help close the gap on the European spots.
Everton News columnist Alan Myers even wanted Everton to sign another midfielder this month.
In the absence of Idrissa Gana Gueye, Everton proactively recalled Harrison Armstrong from his loan spell with Preston North End.
However, there is one midfielder currently at Everton who has impressed both Alan Shearer and Micah Richards this season.
Alan Shearer and Micah Richards wowed by Everton’s James Garner
Gary Lineker is excited for Iliman Ndiaye’s Everton return following the Africa Cup of Nations final this weekend.
There have been so many big-name players missing for Moyes over recent weeks, but James Garner has remained a constant in the starting XI.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Shearer and Richards were both in agreement over just how good Garner has been this season.
Will Garner’s new contract be the signing of the window? 🤩
“There’s no doubt that they’re trying [Thierno Barry and Beto], their work rate and everything else, but if they had a better centre-forward in there then they would climb the league,” said Shearer.
“They’ve got some good players, though, Everton. Garner’s been doing really well of late. I like him in midfield,” responded Richards as Shearer nodded in agreement.
Everton are close to agreeing a new contract with Garner following a recent round of talks.
The midfielder has received a lot of interest ahead of his current deal coming to a conclusion at the end of this season.
The Friedkin Group face easy James Garner contract win at Everton
Given just how well he has performed this season, it will be crucial that Everton just get the deal done to extend Garner’s future.
It had been suggested that Everton and Garner were not in agreement over his salary offer that was on the table.
Where should James Garner rank among Everton’s top earners? 💰
He's been excellent this season, but surely he can't become the top earner!
Having performed to the level he has this term, the midfielder will be able to realistically demand just about whatever he wants.
There is no shortage of opportunities for the Englishman as Newcastle United have shown interest in Garner among many other sides.
Considering Garner’s displays are now being recognised on the national scale, the Friedkins have no other option but to reward their midfielder.
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