Nottingham Forest have held productive talks with Manchester United about re-signing James Garner on loan for the upcoming season, according to The Athletic.

Garner was recalled from a disappointing loan at Watford back in January and sent to the City Ground for the rest of the 2020/21 campaign, in what would prove an excellent move for all parties.

The 20-year-old quickly became a mainstay in Chris Hughton's starting XI and won the adoration of the Forest fanbase with his impressive displays in the middle of the park.

The Reds have been linked with another move for Garner throughout the summer and The Athletic have now confirmed that they want to sign him for the upcoming season.

It is understood that productive talks have been held between Man United and the East Midlands club.

Forest aren't the only club interested in Garner, with Brighton, Norwich City, Rangers, Stoke City, and Swansea City also said to be keen.

Reports elsewhere have indicated that the Red Devils are keen to tie Garner down to a new contract before sending him out on loan.

The Verdict

This is certainly a promising update from Forest's perspective as it appears the club have held productive talks with United over another loan for Garner.

With that in mind, it's a blow for Stoke, Rangers and the other clubs hoping to get a deal done with the Old Trafford outfit.

The midfielder quickly became a key player for the Reds last season and would surely reprise his role as a mainstay in the side should he join.

There is a fair bit of interest from elsewhere but you have to think that the success that Garner had at the City Ground last season is a major advantage for the East Midlands club.