Rangers sign Dan Neil
Rangers have announced the signing of midfielder Dan Neil from Sunderland on a three-year contract. The move comes after Neil’s deal with Sunderland concluded, and despite reports of talks with Southampton. Neil, a former England Under-20 international, joins the Ibrox club following a loan spell at Ipswich Town during the latter half of last season.
The 24-year-old midfielder expressed his enthusiasm for this new chapter in his career. He highlighted his experience at Sunderland, where the weight of fan expectation to win every week and the impact of results on people’s weekends served as a significant motivator. Neil noted that discussions with individuals familiar with Rangers indicated a similar atmosphere, which he finds drives him to perform with dedication.
Neil’s arrival is subject to international clearance. He graduated from Sunderland’s academy, making 201 senior appearances for the club. During his time with the Black Cats, he scored 12 goals.
Neil’s career at Sunderland and leadership role
Neil’s journey with Sunderland saw him progress through various levels of English football, from League One to the Premier League. He played a crucial role in Sunderland’s promotion to the Premier League in 2025, where he captained the team through the play-offs. This included wearing the armband during a 2-1 victory over Sheffield United in the Wembley final, a match that secured Sunderland’s return to England’s top flight after an eight-year absence.
During that promotion campaign, Neil made 47 league appearances and scored twice. However, opportunities in the Premier League became limited for him following Sunderland’s promotion from the Championship.
Derek McInnes, the new Rangers manager, welcomed Neil to the club, describing him as an excellent addition to the squad. McInnes praised Neil as a technically gifted midfielder who is strong in possession, capable of contributing goals, and brings significant energy to the team. The manager also noted Neil’s hunger, ambition, and leadership qualities, particularly his experience in captaining Sunderland to Premier League promotion.
McInnes stated his anticipation of working with Neil throughout pre-season as the team prepares for upcoming challenges.
Rangers’ summer recruitment and upcoming season
Neil’s signing marks another addition to Rangers’ squad this summer. The club has been active in the transfer market, bringing in several new players. Alongside Neil, Rangers have also secured the services of defenders Ben Godfrey and Ross McCrorie, forward Lawrence Shankland, and goalkeeper Ivor Pandur.
These acquisitions are part of the club’s preparations under new manager Derek McInnes, who joined Rangers from Hearts. McInnes will lead the team in his first competitive match against Dundee United on July 31. This fixture will be broadcast live, marking the start of a season where all six Scottish Premiership games on the opening weekend will be shown live.
The match against Dundee United will kick off at 8pm. McInnes took over as Rangers manager after replacing Danny Röhl.
Neil reflected on the expectations at his new club, stating that he anticipates a very similar feeling to his time at Sunderland. He believes this environment will drive him to give his utmost effort daily, which he considers essential for his career progression.
The midfielder, born in South Shields, arrives at Ibrox as a free agent after his contract with Sunderland ended.
Rangers will begin their Scottish Premiership campaign under Derek McInnes on July 31 against Dundee United.
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Source: bbc.com