Southampton ‘in advanced talks’ for Dan Neil as Eliezer Mayenda pursuit ‘progresses’ | OneFootball

Championship side Southampton are in advanced talks to sign Dan Neil, according to Sky Sports.

Neil’s Sunderland departure was effectively sealed in January when he joined Ipswich Town on an initial loan, helping them clinch promotion on the final day. He is weighing his options as his contract expires next week, with Rangers initially seen as frontrunners.

After a slow start, Southampton surged into the play-offs under new boss Tonda Eckert, then were expelled after admitting to spying on Middlesbrough and two other opponents. As it stands the club have kept faith with Eckert, though he is thought to remain under FA investigation.

Wolves and West Ham United also retain interest, but at this stage Southampton are viewed as the likeliest destination for the academy graduate, who won two promotions with his boyhood club.

Meanwhile, Ouest France reports that Stade Rennais are making progress in their bid to sign Eliezer Mayenda. The striker is understood to be open to leaving after spending most of last season as third choice. The French club have also agreed a new deal for Esteban Lepaul, last term’s Ligue one top scorer.

It is unclear whether a loan or permanent transfer is being discussed, though Mayenda is thought to prefer a permanent move. Signed for an initial fee of less than a million pounds, he could bring Sunderland a significant profit under the new SCR rules. Rennais will play in the Europa League next season.

Source: Sunderland Echo