Southampton are interested in signing Manchester United youngster James Garner, according to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook.

The 21-year-old is free to leave Old Trafford despite his exploits on loan at Nottingham Forest last season and Crook reckons he's wanted by Saints.

What's the latest news involving Garner?

According to the Guardian, the Red Devils are prepared to listen to offers for the midfielder, who played a key part in Forest's promotion back to the Premier League last season.

GiveMeSport The Verdict

GiveMeSport The Verdict

Garner registered 14 goal contributions in all competitions during his time at the City Ground and played a role in the winner in the Championship play-off final against Huddersfield back in May.

Regardless, United have put him up for sale, with the Guardian claiming that his sale could raise funds to help Erik ten Hag's transfer plans.

They're looking for in the region of £15m, with the Manchester Evening News reporting that Forest and Tottenham are both keen on signing him permanently, while The Athletic believe that Everton, Leeds and Southampton are also in the running to sign the highly-rated midfielder.

What did Crook say about Garner?

He told GIVEMESPORT: "The fact they're in for James Garner would suggest to me that midfield wise they're looking for someone to come in and play alongside [James] Ward-Prowse and Romeo Lavia, who they love."

Would Garner be a good signing for Southampton?

Southampton have enjoyed success when signing younger players in recent years, and there's no reason they can't do the same with Garner.

Armando Broja scored nine goals while on loan at St Mary's Stadium last term, while Tino Livramento was having an exceptional campaign following his £5m move from Chelsea permanently before suffering an ACL injury in April.

Southampton have continued the theme of signing youngsters in this transfer window, with four of their six summer additions under the age of 21.

Therefore, while Garner might have next to no Premier League experience, with his only two appearances coming late off the bench, there's every reason to believe he could prove another huge success story if he chooses Southampton over some of their top-flight rivals.