Everton face growing concern as Aston Villa step up interest in James Garner

The recent sale of Morgan Rogers to Chelsea could have a significant long-term impact on Aston Villa, with Unai Emery and the club’s hierarchy now deciding how best to invest their major transfer windfall.

A reported £117 million fee has made Rogers the second-most expensive British transfer in football history, with only Liverpool’s signing of Alexander Isak ranking higher.

For Villa, that financial boost has opened the door to potential reinforcements, and their attention appears to have turned towards Merseyside — specifically the blue half.

Aston Villa have over £100m to invest

Everton midfielder James Garner has been admired by Villa for some time, with the 25-year-old emerging as a key target for the Midlands club.

The midfielder recently committed his future to the Toffees, signing a new contract that keeps him at Goodison Park until 2030. However, Villa’s financial strength, combined with the attraction of Champions League football, means they could still feel confident about testing Everton’s resolve.

Having already seen Youri Tielemans leave for Manchester United, Emery’s desire to strengthen his midfield options ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season is understandable.

Garner’s ability to contribute both defensively and creatively makes him an appealing option, particularly as Villa look to maintain their ambitions domestically and in Europe.

Everton remain “relaxed” over James Garner speculation

Despite Villa’s reported interest, Everton are believed to remain relaxed about the situation, with no official bid currently submitted for Garner’s services.

However, that confidence could quickly change if a serious offer arrives.

The Toffees know they would be losing one of their most important players if Garner was tempted by a move to Villa Park. The midfielder was a constant presence throughout the 2025/26 season, starting every league match and accumulating 3,714 minutes of playing time — more than any other Everton player.

His influence was also clear in the final third. Garner recorded seven assists, the highest total in the squad, while his three goals placed him fifth among Everton’s scorers during the campaign.

Garner’s numbers highlight his importance to Everton

Beyond goals and assists, Garner’s all-around contribution demonstrates why he has become such a valuable player for Everton.

He created more chances than any other player at the club, producing 59 opportunities, while also leading the squad for passes attempted (2,059) and completed (1,818).

His 88.3% pass completion rate underlined his reliability in possession and his importance in helping Everton control games from midfield.

Garner also provided an attacking outlet, attempting 77 crosses throughout the season. While his crossing accuracy (23.38%) left room for improvement, it was still the third-best figure among Everton players.

His ability to carry the ball forward, set the tempo and drive the team from midfield made him a crucial part of David Moyes’ Everton side.

A midfielder built on work rate and defensive quality

Garner’s importance is not limited to his creativity.

His energy, determination and physicality helped Everton regain possession regularly, with the midfielder winning the ball back on 202 occasions during the season.

Only James Tarkowski won more than Garner’s 225 one-on-one duels, while his aerial ability was another impressive aspect of his game. He lost just 18 headed duels from 48 attempts, highlighting his competitiveness despite not being the tallest midfielder.

His defensive numbers were arguably the strongest evidence of his value.

Garner attempted 131 tackles, almost double the figure of most of his Everton teammates, while his 78 successful tackles were the highest in the squad.

Everton cannot afford to lose another key player

Simply put, when Garner performs well, Everton tend to perform better.

The midfielder has become the player who connects different areas of the pitch — providing defensive cover, progressing possession and helping create chances in attack.

His availability was also crucial last season as Everton pushed for a potential European qualification place, even though they ultimately fell short.

A prolonged absence or departure would leave a major gap in Moyes’ squad and could seriously damage the club’s ambitions moving forward.

Money could complicate Everton’s plans

Garner is still approaching what should be the peak years of his career, and Everton moved quickly to secure his future with a long-term contract.

However, football’s financial reality means nothing can ever be guaranteed.

If Aston Villa present an offer that benefits both the club and the player, Everton could face a difficult decision. For Garner, the opportunity to compete regularly in the Champions League and challenge against Europe’s best sides would be difficult to ignore.

For Everton, a sizeable transfer fee could provide valuable funds to strengthen multiple areas of the squad.

With several weeks remaining before the transfer window closes, there is still plenty of time for developments to unfold.

For now, Everton will hope that Garner remains committed to the project at Goodison Park and that Villa’s interest does not become something they cannot resist.