Rangers ‘to push for’ Dan Neil as free agent frontrunners | OneFootball

Sunderland Echo understands that Rangers are making a major push to sign Dan Neil this summer, and are currently viewed as frontrunners for the free agent.

Neil will leave Sunderland on a free this summer, a departure effectively confirmed when he joined Ipswich Town on loan in January. Rangers explored a move then and revived their interest in recent months, The Scotsman first reported earlier this month.

Ipswich went up with Neil making 17 appearances in all competitions. Rangers head coach Danny Rohl is understood to admire the midfielder from his Sheffield Wednesday spell and is driving significant recruitment ahead of the new campaign.

Beyond his qualities in midfield, Neil fits Rangers’ plan to add leadership. He captained Sunderland during a promotion run and is thought to have been earmarked for a leadership role if he joins.

Rangers are also pushing to sign Hearts striker Lawrence Shankland as they seek a strong start to the window. Neil attended the Stadium of Light on Sunday as a fan alongside Lynden Gooch as Sunderland clinched Europa League qualification, and will now decide his next step.

Earlier this month chairman Andrew Cavenagh set out a recruitment focus on mentality and leadership, saying resources would be committed to build a winning team and that the aim is to find the right leaders rather than fixate on budget. He added the squad has talent but needs greater chemistry, leadership and experience to sustain a title challenge.

Source: Sunderland Echo