Rangers emerge as frontrunners to sign Sunderland free agent Dan Neil | OneFootball

Rangers have stepped up a move for Dan Neil this summer and are seen as the frontrunners for the Sunderland midfielder, Sunderland Echo understands.

Neil will officially leave Sunderland as a free agent this summer, his exit effectively confirmed when he joined Ipswich Town on loan in January. Rangers were interested then and have revived that pursuit in recent months.

Ipswich won promotion with Neil making 17 appearances in all competitions.

Rangers head coach Danny Rohl is understood to admire Neil from his time at Sheffield Wednesday and is leading a major recruitment drive before the new campaign. The club also want more leadership, and Neil, who captained Sunderland during a promotion push, has been earmarked for a leadership role if he signs.

Rangers are also making a concerted effort to land Hearts striker Lawrence Shankland as they look to start the window strongly.

Neil attended the Stadium of Light on Sunday as a fan alongside Lynden Gooch as Sunderland secured a Europa League place for next season. He will now make a final decision on his future.

Earlier this month chairman Andrew Cavenagh said the focus is on building a winning team and that the club are ready to commit more resources. He stressed the priority is finding leaders and the right mentality, noting the squad have talent but need greater chemistry, leadership and experience to sustain performances across matches and over a season.

Source: Sunderland Echo