NafisaDan Neil is reportedly eager to complete a switch to Rangers during the summer transfer window after being allowed to depart Sunderland as a free agent.
The 24-year-old spent the second half of the season on loan at Ipswich Town after falling out of favour at his parent club, and Sunderland have now confirmed he will not be returning following that temporary spell away from the Stadium of Light.
His availability has immediately attracted attention across the English Football League, with several clubs monitoring his situation closely, although Rangers are understood to be among the leading contenders for his signature.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Neil is particularly attracted to the idea of moving to Ibrox due to the chance to compete for trophies and secure European football.
Danny Rohl is actively looking to add reinforcements in midfield, and a free transfer opportunity of this calibre is viewed as an attractive option, especially given Rangers’ past success in the market for out-of-contract players.
Before anything is finalised, though, there is expected to be careful consideration from all sides, with Neil weighing up his next step after leaving Sunderland and assessing the best environment for his development.
Rangers’ project under Rohl is still in its early stages, but the club’s ambition to reshape the squad and return to consistent title contention remains clear heading into the window.
Rangers boosted in their pursuit of Dan Neil
Football Insider reported on 27 May that Neil could address a key issue within the Rangers squad due to his leadership qualities, which were developed during his time at the Stadium of Light.
There have also been growing questions around Rangers’ mentality in crucial moments, particularly after their collapse in the final stages of the title race this season.
Despite finishing third and ending the campaign without silverware, Neil could arrive at Ibrox with the opportunity to help reshape the midfield dynamic and influence a turnaround in fortunes.
“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 just one of several names being tracked by Rangers as they prepare for a busy summer window aimed at strengthening key areas of the squad.
While midfield reinforcements remain a priority, alongside the potential addition of wide attacking options, there is also a clear shift in recruitment strategy taking shape at Ibrox.
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider that Rangers are prioritising young, driven players who are hungry to prove themselves at a higher level.
That approach has been a recurring theme in recent transfer windows, with the club focusing on development and long-term growth rather than short-term fixes.
There is also a belief internally that players with something to prove can thrive under pressure at Ibrox, whereas more established names can sometimes struggle to maintain consistency once expectations rise.
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