Insider: Aston Villa plot move to sign Everton star, EFC offer stance explained

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(Credit: Imago) Sun 5 April 2026 9:39, UK Aston Villa have joined a number of Premier League rivals in the race to sign Everton star James Garner ahead of the summer transfer window.The 25-year-old has impressed under David Moyes this season and recently earned his first cap for England, which has seen interest in his signature grow.Villa had been among the clubs considering a move to sign the midfielder on a free transfer, but after he put pen to paper on a new contract, they have not been deterred.Former Aston Villa scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Unai Emery is keen to strengthen his squad and Garner would be viewed as a strong signing.They have been keeping a close eye on his performances at the Hill Dickinson Stadium this season, and Aston Villa could make a move if they feel he could be available. 🔄 Aston Villa Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, departures, and contract news from the Aston Villa boardroom. VISIT THE VILLA TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Who else is in the race to sign James Garner?Brown told Football Insider on 2 April that Nottingham Forest are interested in Garner and could make a move for his signature when the window opens.Forest had joined Villa in watching Garner mid-season before his contract renewal, but are in a similar situation with that interest not having faded.James GarnerStats 2025-26Appearances34Starts34Minutes Played3084Goals3Assists6James Garner’s 2025-26 stats for Everton.

(via Transfermarkt)Emery’s side could now be prepared to join the race again in the summer as they aim to bolster their midfield options, although it may depend on the price tag.“Interest in Garner certainly hasn’t gone away,” Brown told Football Insider.“Aston Villa were spoken about when there was the possibility of him leaving Everton for free, and I’m told they were keeping an eye on the situation.“Obviously, he ended up signing a new contract at Everton, but the interest is still there.“They will have watched him closely when he played for England, and by all accounts, he was very impressive in that game and did well for himself.“So when there’s a player like that, doing well for his club and doing well for England, Villa will feel he could make a difference in their side.“It won’t be easy for them because Everton don’t want to lose him, so it could depend on the money involved and what Everton are asking for.“We all know the situation Villa are in, so they could be priced out of a move, but Emery wants to add to his team and Garner would be a good option.”How do Everton feel about losing Garner?Football Insider revealed in November that Everton were doing everything to keep Garner, with contract talks accelerating at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.He later put pen to paper on a new deal in January to extend his stay through to 2030 and end any speculation that he might leave on a free transfer.Credit: ImagoWhile that is not thought to have deterred the growing interest in his signature, Everton have made a long-term commitment to his future at the club.Moyes values the midfielder as a crucial part of his first-team plans as they strive to continue their ambitious progress after what has been a strong season.That, crossed with the length of time remaining on his contract, will allow the Toffees to demand a lofty fee if they are to let him go. 🦁 ASTON VILLA INSIDER UPDATE 🦁 Get the inside track on the Villa Park dugout, transfer strategy, player wages, and technical leadership at Bodymoor Heath. Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from Villa Park.