Two Championship clubs 'ready to fight' for Dan Neil after emotional Sunderland departure | OneFootball

Sunderland Echo reports that Coventry City are 'ready to fight' Ipswich Town for the permanent signing of Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil this summer. The 24-year-old is approaching the end of his deal, which would make any move a free transfer.

A switch could set up an emotional return to the Stadium of Light with his new club next season.

Neil has made nine appearances for loan club Ipswich since joining late in the January window. He has begun to impress as Kieran McKenna's side chase an immediate Premier League return.

Coventry are described as current Championship leaders and title favourites, and believe Neil can help them re-establish themselves in the top flight after 25 years. Frank Lampard's side sit nine points clear of second-placed Middlesbrough with seven games to play, and boast a sizeable goal-difference advantage over Kim Hellberg's men.

That cushion has allowed the Sky Blues to plan for next season and they are said to be major admirers of the midfielder.

Reflecting on his exit, Neil said he had been moved by tributes from team-mates and supporters, and valued the respect of the dressing room. He called the decision tough but said he was at peace with it, proud to have played a big part in helping his boyhood club back to where he felt it belonged, and ready for a new chapter.

Source: Sunderland Echo