Everton's Dwight McNeil dilemma explained as Brennan Johnson swap deal now on cards

Everton are in talks with Crystal Palace over a swap deal involving Dwight McNeil and Brennan Johnson.

Business is expected to pick up for the Toffees, who now look to be set on adding additions in attack.

Bournemouth's Marcus Tavernier is a new name that has been linked to Hill Dickinson, while uncertainty remains over the future of Jack Grealish.

It has always seemed likely that the Blues would offload McNeil this summer, especially after his near move to the Eagles in January.

The winger was said to be left in distress after his transfer to Selhurst Park collapsed on deadline day after legal checks took too long to be completed.

Now, McNeil could leave Everton to join Palace after all, but David Moyes could get a new player right away in the form of Johnson.

Everton's Dwight McNeil and Brennan Johnson dilemma explained

A £20million fee had been agreed in January between Everton and Crystal Palace for McNeil, with add-ons also said to be included.

Noise from Merseyside suggested that it was the south London club who dragged their heels, resulting in the collapse that left the player emotionally spent.

Now, he could get his move, though this time the deal would look different for the Blues.

According to an update from The Times on Saturday, Everton are in direct talks with Palace over a swap deal involving Johnson and McNeil.

However, one hurdle in the way is said to be finances due to the valuations involved from each side.

Johnson joined the Eagles in the winter window for £35m, and it could be that they want McNeil plus further money on top to agree to a deal.

If Everton's man is still worth £20m, Moyes' side may still have to give the Eagles an extra £10m at the very least to see a swap deal happen.

But who would be getting the better deal?

Where Johnson would fit in if swap deal is agreed

McNeil can play on either flank and can be a useful player, but is unlikely to get the minutes that he will want for the Toffees this season.

When his initial deal to Crystal Palace fell through, it was suggested that he would move on this summer, as Moyes revealed his sympathy for the 26-year-old.

Though Johnson on paper is a more valuable player, there may be a reason why Pierre Sage is open to the former Tottenham man leaving.

Johnson has yet to score for the south London club in 26 games so far, and though the Wales international has a Europa Conference League medal to his name, he didn't feature in the final.

Perhaps Everton would be better off selling McNeil if they have to pay extra for Johnson, though a straight swap with no money involved would change the dynamic.

By the looks of it, the Eagles would be getting the better bargain.