Southampton ‘in advanced talks’ for Dan Neil as Eliezer Mayenda move ‘making progress’ | OneFootball

Southampton are pushing to sign Dan Neil, while Stade Rennais are progressing in their move for Eliezer Mayenda.

Sky Sports reports Southampton have moved ahead in the race for the 24-year-old and are in advanced discussions. Ouest France says Rennes have made progress for Mayenda, and have also tied last season’s Ligue 1 top scorer, Esteban Lepaul, to a new deal.

Neil left in January on an initial loan to Ipswich Town, who clinched second-tier promotion on the final day. He has been weighing options ahead of becoming a free agent next week when his Sunderland contract expires, with Rangers initially thought to be frontrunners.

Southampton recovered from a slow start to reach the play-offs under new boss Tonda Eckert, then were expelled after admitting to spying on Middlesbrough before the semi-final and two other opponents. The club have stood by Eckert and are preparing for the new season targeting promotion, and it is thought he remains subject to an FA investigation.

Wolves and West Ham have also shown interest in Neil, though Southampton are currently seen as his most likely destination. The academy graduate secured two promotions at his boyhood club.

Mayenda is open to leaving after spending most of last season as third choice on Wearside. It is unclear whether a loan or permanent deal is being discussed, though he is thought to prefer a permanent move. Signed for less than £1 million, the striker could earn Sunderland a major profit that would bolster their position under the new SCR rules. Rennes will play in the Europa League next season and are viewed as one of Ligue 1’s most ambitious clubs.

Source: Sunderland Echo