Sunderland now appear more at ease in their efforts to retain their valuable players.
Last month, there was a sense of panic among Sunderland supporters as rumors swirled about potential departures of key players such as Jack Clarke, Dan Neil, Pierre Ekwah, and Trai Hume. However, Sunderland has managed to keep all these players, and the speculation has not advanced any further.
Regarding Dan Neil, his future has never seemed too worrisome, despite him turning down a new contract in June.
It is believed that Neil’s decision was influenced by the uncertainty surrounding the club, particularly with Regis Le Bris yet to be appointed.
Dan Neil ‘wants’ to take Sunderland to the Premier League
Dan Neil has yet to sign a new contract, but he is expected to remain at the Stadium of Light, where he has a deep affection for his boyhood club.
The Sunderland Echo reported that Neil has two years left on his current contract, but Sunderland aims to secure his future due to his impressive development and the ongoing interest from top-flight clubs in his performances. Earlier this summer, Neil declined an initial offer, largely because of the uncertainty surrounding the club at the time. Nevertheless, he loves being at Sunderland and ideally wants to help the team reach the Premier League while wearing the red-and-white.
Keeping Neil could be one of Sunderland’s best bits of business
Dan Neil’s rejection of the club’s initial offer doesn’t imply he won’t sign a different one, and many predict he will stay at Sunderland beyond this summer.
The talented midfielder is undoubtedly a key player for the Black Cats, and they are unlikely to consider selling him unless an exorbitant offer comes in. Neil is comfortably one of Sunderland’s most crucial players, and if given the opportunity to play more freely this season, he could become one of the best in the Championship. At 22, he is expected to be a regular starter under Regis Le Bris, with players like Jobe Bellingham, Chris Rigg, and Alan Browne competing for other spots on the team.
Neil has the qualities of a future captain, and with time, he could develop into an England international, something we’ve already seen glimpses of. Securing Neil’s future, following the re-signing of Dan Ballard and Rigg, would be a significant move for Sunderland and could set the stage for a very promising season.