Tottenham eye Everton ace James Garner as Conor Gallagher summer transfer alternative

Everton midfielder James Garner has been identified by Tottenham as an alternative if they miss out on Chelsea ace Conor Gallagher.

That is according to journalist Dean Jones, who added via GiveMeSport [20 February] that Gallagher is high up on Spurs' list of targets.

Should the England international sign a new contract at Stamford Bridge, however, Garner is one of those Tottenham will turn their focus to.

Jones added: "James Garner kind of fits the profile somewhat so yeah, an interesting one to look out for."

James Garner's contract situation

Garner has come into his own this season after shifting into central midfield, starting 23 of Everton's 25 Premier League matches.

The 22-year-old still is under contract at Goodison Park until 2026, but the Toffees will no doubt be eager to extend those terms at some point.

Garner, hailed as "outstanding" by Robbie Earle, is not too dissimilar to Gallagher, so it is easy to see where these links are coming from.

The Daily Mail reported on Monday (19 February) that Garner is being monitored by England boss Gareth Southgate, so his positive displays are not going unnoticed.

With good performances, however, comes this inevitable speculation. But Garner has already experienced life at a top-six club in Manchester United and will know he has it good at Goodison Park.

For now, the midfielder's sole focus has to be on keeping Everton in the Premier League. The transfer rumours can then wait for the summer.

In other Everton news, a further update has been shared on the 777 Partners takeover situation at Goodison Park.

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