---
title: "Everton refuse to sell midfielder wanted by Aston Villa"
canonical: "https://readastonvilla.com/2026/07/31/everton-refuse-to-sell-midfielder-wanted-by-aston-villa/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "James Chettle"
section: "Aston Villa News"
published: "2026-07-31T17:56:55Z"
modified: "2026-07-31T17:57:00Z"
---

# Everton refuse to sell midfielder wanted by Aston Villa

**Everton have no intention of selling James Garner despite interest from Aston Villa, according to Football Insider.**

Garner has been identified as a possible solution to Unai Emery’s midfield problems, but David Moyes considers the 25-year-old central to his plans.

Villa have monitored Garner after losing Youri Tielemans to Manchester United and seeing Amadou Onana suffer a serious knee injury.

However, former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown claims Everton would require an exceptional offer before considering a sale.

“Everton have been pretty clear on this, they don’t want to lose James Garner,” Brown told [Football Insider](https://www.footballinsider247.com/everton/evertons-transfer-plan-is-clear-for-james-garner-amid-aston-villa-swoop).

Garner signed a new Everton contract until 2030 during the January transfer window. That agreement leaves the Merseyside club in a strong negotiating position and removes any pressure to accept a reduced offer.

> 🚨 EVERTON TRANSFER | James Garner\
> \
> Aston Villa are circling, but Football Insider say Everton's plan for Garner is clear. Player of the season. Won't be easy to keep. Won't be easy to let go. (via Football Insider) [#EFC](https://x.com/hashtag/EFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) [pic.twitter.com/t9ygoBDARJ](https://t.co/t9ygoBDARJ)
>
> — ToffeeBriefing (@ToffeeBriefing) [July 31, 2026](https://x.com/ToffeeBriefing/status/2083228963627827325?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)

## James Garner Aston Villa transfer appears increasingly difficult

Garner became one of Moyes’ most dependable players last season and did not miss a Premier League match.

His energy, passing range and ability to operate in several midfield roles would suit Emery. Villa require another established option alongside João Gomes, Boubacar Kamara and the recovering Onana.

Garner has also undergone surgery on a groin injury and is expected to miss the remainder of Everton’s pre-season programme. He could struggle to feature against Crystal Palace on the opening weekend.

The injury may discourage Villa from submitting an immediate offer. Everton’s refusal to negotiate creates another substantial obstacle.

Villa are considering alternative midfielders and have also been linked with Tottenham’s Pape Matar Sarr. ReadAstonVilla has explained why the [Spurs midfielder could replace Onana](https://readastonvilla.com/2026/07/30/spurs-midfielder-wanted-by-aston-villa-to-replace-onana/).

The James Garner Aston Villa transfer cannot be completely dismissed while the window remains open. Nevertheless, his long contract and importance to Moyes suggest Villa may need to move quickly towards another target.