Latest developments
- Everton eyeing move for Dan Neil.
- Their sister club Roma are also keen on the Sunderland star.
- Neil is out of contract in the summer of 2026.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Everton to rival Roma for Neil
It has previously been reported that Everton are interested in signing Sunderland's Chris Rigg in the summer transfer window.
According to TEAMtalk, the Toffees are also keen on recruiting Rigg's Sunderland teammate, Neil, who is attracting interest from Everton's sister club Roma. The Merseyside club were taken over in December by Roma's current owners, the Friedkin Group.
Value (4/5): Sunderland may have to sell
Neil is set to enter the final 12 months of his current deal, and while Sunderland are keen to offer him a new contract, they may have to entertain offers if they fail to agree new terms with their club captain.
There is a belief that a bid between £15m to £20m could be enough to prise Neil away from the Stadium of Light this summer.
Suitability (3.5/5): Strong passing
One of Neil's strengths lies in his passing ability, demonstrated by the fact that he is in the top ten for progressive passes in the Championship this season, according to FBref.
The midfielder may only be 23, but he evidently has the traits to be a leader in any team, having been entrusted with the captain's armband at the Stadium of Light.
Upgrade? (3/5): Doucoure replacement
Idrissa Gueye and Abdoulaye Doucoure are both out of contract at the end of the season. There is a suggestion that Gueye could sign a one-year extension, but there seems to be greater doubt surrounding Doucoure's future.
The Toffees opted against activating a one-year extension in his current deal, and they will have to agree a new contract if he is to extend his five-year stay with the Merseyside club.
It would be a tough ask for Neil to replace a mainstay of the Everton squad, especially as he is yet to make the step up to the Premier League.
Logic (2.5/5): Dependent on Sunderland's playoff campaign
Sunderland are likely to fall short of the top two, but they could still achieve promotion via the playoffs. Neil could be tempted to sign a new contract if the Black Cats win promotion, however, he may consider his options if they are stuck in the Championship for at least another season.
Whisper+ verdict: 15.5/25
This rumour seems to depend on whether Sunderland can secure promotion to the Premier League. If they are successful in that endeavour, the Black Cats may have a good chance of extending Neil's deal and warding off any potential interest.
