Sheffield United, Rangers and West Ham given definitive answer as Dan Neil joins Ipswich Town from Sunderland
Sheffield United, Rangers and West Ham United-linked midfielder Dan Neil has completed a move from Sunderland to Ipswich Town.
The 24-year-old helped the Black Cats rise from League One to the Premier League, making over 200 appearances for his boyhood club in the process.
However, opportunities have proven limited for the all-action midfielder since Sunderland’s promotion to the top flight.
Sheffield United were credited with interest in the former England youth international, as were Rangers and West Ham, but Ipswich have won the race.
Dan Neil completes move
The Tractor Boys have tied Neil down to a loan deal running until the end of the season, at which point his Sunderland contract is due to expire.
After putting pen to paper, Neil said: “I’ve been at Sunderland for a very long time and it was an unbelievable chapter in my life and career but I’m ready for the next chapter now. After a lot of thought, it was clear Ipswich would be the perfect fit for that.
“The way the manager wants to play football and the way I like to play is the same, basically, and it’s a great fit for me to keep developing as a player while hopefully also achieving some success here.
“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. I can’t wait to get started.”
Kieran McKenna on new addition to Ipswich Town squad
Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna added: “We’re happy to add Dan to the group. He’s a versatile midfielder who can play in a couple of different roles.
“He of course has a lot of experience in the Championship, including winning a promotion last season, so he’s a player with good experience, good pedigree and good character who I’m sure will be a strong addition for us for the rest of the season.”
Sheffield United still appear keen on bolstering their midfield and have also been linked with Brentford’s Frank Onyeka.