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

According to Sunderland Echo, Coventry City are ‘ready to fight’ Ipswich Town for the permanent signing of Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil as he nears the end of his contract, a move that could set up an emotional Stadium of Light reunion next season.

The report claims both promotion-chasing clubs want to secure Neil on a free at season’s end. He has made nine appearances for loan club Ipswich Town since joining late in the January window, impressing as Kieran McKenna’s side chase a return to the Premier League at the first attempt.

It adds that Coventry are also pushing for a deal and believe the 24-year-old could help them establish themselves back in the top flight after a 25-year absence.

With next season in mind, the Sky Blues are said to be prepared to rival Ipswich to bring Neil to the CBS Arena this summer, helped by his impending free-agent status.

Reflecting on his January exit, Neil said he was grateful and touched by tributes from team-mates and supporters. He called the move a tough decision but one he has made peace with, noting he was proud to have played a big part in getting Sunderland back to where he felt it belonged as he embraces a new chapter.

Source: Sunderland Echo