Hull City and Middlesbrough have both been linked with outgoing Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil – but Southampton are reportedly in advanced talks over a deal.
The 24-year-old, an all-action midfielder, is leaving the Stadium of Light upon the expiry of his contract next week.
He saw out the final months of his Black Cats deal on loan at Ipswich Town, helping the Tractor Boys seal promotion to the Premier League.
There has been talk of interest from an array of clubs, including Hull and Middlesbrough, but neither appear to be the frontrunners.
‘Advanced talks’ over Dan Neil deal
Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie has claimed Southampton are close to landing the former England youth international on a free transfer.
Posting on X, Downie said: “Southampton are in advanced talks with midfielder Dan Neil. he free agent midfielder is high on Tonda Eckert’s wish list, and is close to signing.
“There’s also interest in the 24-year-old from Wolves and West Ham, who has his pick of top Championship clubs.”
Dan Neil’s profile
Neil would arguably be a coup for any Championship club, therefore it is not a surprise to see links with so many different outfits.
Describing his style after putting pen to paper at Ipswich, Neil said: “I’m a central midfielder who likes to get on the ball and tries to dictate games as much as I can.
“But I’ve also learnt over the years that the out-of-possession stuff is just as important, especially in this division. I’m vocal in terms of organising the team and those are probably my main qualities.”
Hull can offer Premier League football, but may well be looking elsewhere in the midfielder market ahead of their return to the top flight. Middlesbrough, meanwhile, will be looking to mount another promotion push after being beaten by Hull in the Championship play-off final.
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