James Garner’s exit could be announced in weeks as Everton face unwanted race against time
James Garner is in the final year of his contract at Everton.
Everton cannot be ruled out of the relegation picture this season, and as a result, they are going to have to do some business in the January transfer window.
The signing of a striker is going to be a priority amid links connecting Everton with a move for Franculino Dju, though the futures of those already on Merseyside will also need to be addressed.
Garner is one of those in need of attention, and it may be a race against time for the Toffees.
Everton will be fearful of James Garner contract situation
The January transfer window opens in seven weeks, with the Toffees almost certainly going to be keen on doing some early business.
However, January also marks the start of the period in which players can begin negotiations with foreign clubs over pre-contractual agreements.
Garner has been a regular for Everton this season, and his consistent level of performance will have almost definitely alerted clubs from around Europe to the possibility of signing him for nothing in January.
He is one of several Everton players who will face a similar situation, and Moyes will not want to lose any of them.
Garner’s importance need to be recognised with a new contract offer in the coming weeks as a matter of urgency.
Who else is out of contract at Everton?
Vitalli Mykolenko is another who could leave for nothing in January, though contract talks are expected to be initiated in the coming weeks.
Michael Keane, Idrissa Gueye, Seamus Coleman, and Harry Tyler are the remaining players who face the same scenario.
Keane and Gueye both have clauses in their deal that could be triggered to extend their stay, though it could be the end of the road for Coleman and Tyrer, with the latter in particular likely to be on the search for first-team football.
Coleman has been an excellent servant throughout his time at Everton, and could remain at the club in a coaching capacity if he decides against furthering his playing career.
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