Everton have been linked with a move for Sunderland's Dan Neil. Credit: Imago
Everton have been linked with a move for Sunderland's Dan Neil. Credit: Imago

Dan Neil transfer: Sunderland sources share exit stance in Everton news

Harri Burton

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior football journalist specialising in refereeing and officiating; former contributor to The Football League Paper, Late Tackle, and the Premier League; University of Derby graduate. FOCUS Refereeing controversies, football finance and governance, PGMOL decisions, and officiating analysis across the Premier League, EFL, and SPFL. THE INSIGHT Harri utilises a network of officiating and industry contacts to deliver verified, expert analysis of refereeing decisions and PGMOL policy. He provides the regulatory clarity behind the controversy to ensure fans get the full picture.

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Sunderland have no interest in selling Dan Neil despite interest from Everton in the winter transfer window, according to Graeme Bailey.

The journalist reported via Everton News [23 January] that sources at the Stadium of Light are adamant the Black Cats want to keep all of their star players before 3 February, which includes Neil.

This comes after the news that David Moyes is a huge admirer of the 23-year-old midfielder [The Telegraph], with it being understood the player could be available for £15million.

Everton linked with Sunderland star Dan Niel

Considering the Toffees' current midfield make-up, it absolutely makes sense to be linked with a player with Neil's stature and ability, albeit only starring in the Championship.

Despite playing a defensive-midfield role at the Stadium of Light, the 23-year-old still has one goal and three assists to his name and could easily help alleviate some of the pressure at Goodison Park.

While Idrissa Gueye and Orel Mangala have been in fine form this season, the former is only getting older at 35 years of age while the other is only on loan at Merseyside.

This leaves James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam, both of whom have been sidelined with long-term injuries this season and might take quite a while to get back up to speed with the Premier League.

Neil, on the other hand, has started 27 of Sunderland's 28 league matches this term and has been a mainstay in the team over the last three campaigns, racking up nearly 200 appearances across all competitions.

David Moyes, Everton manager
David Moyes, Everton manager [Credit: Imago]

With the number of players being linked with a move to Goodison Park, Neil looks to be one of the most sensible possible purchases, though a new striker is absolutely essential.

Armando Broja has been sidelined yet again, and while Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored against Tottenham, he and Beto have been off the boil in recent seasons.

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