Dan Neil: Rangers move is 'appealing' as talks intensify over deal

Dan Neil is keen to make the move to Rangers in the summer transfer window after he was allowed to leave Sunderland as a free agent.

The 24-year-old joined Ipswich Town on loan during the January window, and his parent club confirmed he would not be returning after his short spell away.

His availability has placed a number of English Football League clubs on alert, but Rangers are believed to be firm contenders in the race for his signature.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Neil wants to join Rangers for the opportunity to compete for silverware and European qualification.

Danny Rohl is keen to strengthen in midfield, and the opportunity to agree a free transfer is set to appeal, with Rangers having had success in that market previously.

Rangers boosted in their pursuit of Dan Neil

Football Insider reported on 27 May that Neil could fix a major problem at Rangers thanks to his proven leadership skills, honed at the Stadium of Light.

Questions have been asked about Rangers’ mental strength given the way they fell out of the title race in the closing weeks of the season.

Despite having recorded a disappointing third-placed finish and another season without silverware, Neil could arrive at Ibrox to turn things around.

“This summer is going to be difficult for Rangers,” Brown told Football Insider.

“It’s already tough operating in the Scottish market, but finances aren’t exactly strong, let alone after the sort of season Rangers have had.

“But if they can operate in the free agent market, that might be a positive avenue for them.

“Finishing third will impact their ability to lure players in, but ultimately they are still going to be competing for silverware and playing in Europe next season.

“That makes them an attractive option for any player, so for Neil, who has just left Sunderland, a move to Rangers is going to appeal to him.

“He will be keen to go up there and prove himself, show his qualities and hopefully be part of a team which can change their fortunes.

“It won’t be easy, but it will be appealing, so if Rangers are pushing to sign him like I’ve heard, it’s a deal I can see them getting over the line.”

What do Rangers' latest transfer plans look like?

Neil is one of a number of players on Rangers’ radar ahead of the summer transfer window, as they aim to bolster their squad in key positions.

Despite having multiple positions, including central midfield and new wingers on their radar, there is also a renewed focus on the type of player they want.

Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider that Rangers want young and motivated players to add to their squad this summer.

In recent years, there has been a plan at Ibrox to sign young players and help them develop, and it appears those plans are still in place.

There is also a feeling that unproven players will want to step up their displays at Ibrox, whereas signing established names can lead to complacency.