Dan Neil: What he could bring to Wolves and what has been said about Sunderland man

As the work on Wolves’ summer re-build following relegation begins - there is no doubt going to be plenty of speculation around potential targets.

And that seemed to begin on Thursday, as it emerged Wolves are keen on making a move for Sunderland’s out of contract midfielder Dan Neil.

The 24-year-old Sunderland academy graduate has been hot property since last summer - having found his game time limited for the Black Cats.

Having made over 200 appearances for them, helping them rise from League One back to the top flight, Neil was hardly used by Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris.

He has been on loan at Ipswich Town since January as he targets a second promotion in as many seasons.

It was reported by the Express & Star on Thursday that Wolves want Neil to be part of their summer re-build.

But what is he like as a player and what has been said about him?

‘Versatile’

Look at articles and managers talking about Neil and they will use the same word. Versatile.

And that is what he has been throughout his Sunderland career.

His preferred position has been in midfield but he has been used elsewhere, at full back on the odd occasion, to help his side out.

Neil has mostly played as a number eight, a midfielder who likes to get forward, involved in build-up and make things happen.

In terms of goals, the most Neil has ever scored in a season is four, so he isn’t your number ten, playmaker off the striker, who is getting in the box and scoring ten goals a season.

But technically he is a classy operator, good on the ball and in tight areas, who links play well.

What has been said

Neil has received plaudits from managers and players throughout his time at Sunderland, having made his debut back in 2018.

From the 2021/22 season in League One, Neil has been a mainstay in the side.

Up to this season he has consistently played more than 40 games a season - and was entrusted with the captain’s armband for a period.

Neil may have found frustration in not being used in the Premier League - but one of his former managers has already tipped him to make an impact in the top flight in the future.

Ex-Albion boss Tony Mowbray, who managed Neil at the Stadium of Light and led them to the play-offs said previously: “We’re all delighted with the season he has had so far. I can see the progression in him during my tenure at the club.

“He’s growing, and if he keeps on growing he will undoubtedly play at the top level and bring his qualities to a really good team – hopefully this one – in the Premier League.”

‘Fire in my belly’

It has already been confirmed that Neil will depart the Black Cats at the end of his deal in the coming months.

And since then Neil has spoken quite a bit about his time at Sunderland, and his frustrations at finding himself side lined in the top flight.

He could yet be promoted this season with Ipswich, who are fighting to go straight back up.

He’s desperate to cut it in the top flight, and after Thursday’s reports, if he doesn’t do it with Ipswich, he may get the chance to do it with Wolves.

On his ambitions, Neil said: “Not getting many chances in the Premier League this season was disappointing, but there’s definitely a little bit of fire in my belly to get back after the way it went at the start of the season.”

“I’m on a different path now and I’m desperate to get back to the Premier League, get that feeling of getting promoted again. Who knows what will happen in the summer, but I want to make sure that I give 100 per cent to try and get Ipswich back to the Premier League.”