Southampton ‘in talks to sign’ Dan Neil as Stade Rennais ‘make progress’ on Eliezer Mayenda | OneFootball

Southampton are in advanced talks to sign Dan Neil, with the Championship club now leading the chase for the 24-year-old, Sky Sports reports.

Neil's Sunderland exit was set in January when he joined Ipswich Town on an initial loan. He becomes a free agent next week and Rangers had been viewed as early frontrunners.

Southampton made the play-offs under Tonda Eckert, then were expelled after admitting to spying on Middlesbrough and two further opponents. The club have kept faith with Eckert and are stepping up plans for the new season aimed at promotion, though it is thought he remains under FA investigation.

Wolves and West Ham United retain interest in Neil, but Southampton are currently seen as his most likely destination. The academy graduate won two promotions with his boyhood club.

Stade Rennais are making progress in a move for Sunderland forward Eliezer Mayenda, Ouest France reports. The 21-year-old is understood to be open to leaving after spending most of last season as third choice.

It is unclear whether a loan or permanent transfer is being discussed, although Mayenda is thought to prefer a permanent switch. Rennes have also agreed a new contract for Esteban Lepaul, last season's Ligue 1 top scorer, and will play in the Europa League.

Sunderland, who paid an initial fee of less than £1 million for Mayenda, would likely bank a major profit that would strengthen their position under the new SCR rules.

Source: Sunderland Echo