Manchester United are leaning towards the idea of letting James Garner leave the club on loan again next season, but would prefer him to play in the Premier League, according to the Athletic.

Garner has enjoyed an excellent season in the Championship, spending the first half of the season on loan at promotion hopefuls Watford.

Despite playing 21 times for Watford, United recalled the midfielder in January and sent him on loan to Forest, with a view to him getting more minutes under his belt.

Garner has since been a mainstay in Chris Hughton's side, producing a series of impressive performances for the Reds from central midfield.

The 20-year-old picked up the Man of the Match award against Brentford last time out, and even picked up the captain's armband after Lewis Grabban was replaced late on.

United are undoubtedly keeping an eye on Garner's progress, and according to the Athletic, they are open to the idea of letting him go out on loan next season.

But United would prefer for him to play in the Premier League, as he edges closer towards a regular first-team chance at Old Trafford.

The Verdict

This probably doesn't come as too much of a surprise at all.

Garner, by the time this season comes to an end, will have made over 40 appearances at this level and he has done very well indeed.

The next step would be for him to step up to the Premier League and join perhaps a bottom-half side.

It would be some coup if Forest were to get him back next season.