With Dan Neil ‘set for Rangers talks’, the potential acquisition of the former Sunderland captain has intensified the debate around the midfield options at Danny Rohl’s disposal next season.
The Sunderland Echo reported on the 24-year-old’s situation and current status, citing journalist Alan Nixon’s update that Rangers have reignited their interest in Neil.
This follows contact between both parties in January, but the player opted for a move to Ipswich Town, contributing to the Tractor Boys’ successful promotion push.
He will not be part of the Ipswich squad for their latest assault on the Premier League, but Coventry Live have detailed whether or not Frank Lampard’s side should follow up on their suggested interest.
Where does Dan Neil fit into Rangers midfield options?
As things stand, Rangers have Nico Raskin, Mo Diomande, Connor Barron, and Tochi Chukwuani to choose from in the engine room.
We also await an update on the Bailey Rice situation.
It’s clear there will be movement with Rangers’ midfield options this summer – that is a necessity.
Dan Neil made just eight starts and a further eight substitute appearances for Ipswich on their march to second place in the Championship.
He is now a free agent, following his Sunderland departure, but what are his qualities?
Neil has been known to play as a defensive midfielder or playmaker, potentially in the role currently occupied by Raskin at Rangers.
There is a good chance that Raskin will move on this summer, but does Dan Neil possess the quality to take Rangers to another level as a starting midfielder?
That’s debatable.
Time for Raskin and Diomande to move on
Connor Barron is most likely to stay as a squad option, while Chukwuani is just in the building since January.
There is a strong argument that Raskin and Diomande should be moved on, with the funds used to source adequate replacements, and they need to be better players.
This writer is unsure if Dan Neil fits that mould.
While he may be out of contract, there’s rarely such a thing as a free transfer in the modern game.
Neil and other similar players coming from the top end of the Championship or the bottom of the Premier League can command substantial signing-on fees with a hefty pay packet on top.
Rangers need to use the budget in a smarter way this time around. No more expensive mistakes, please.
