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(Credit: Imago)

Edward Bazeley

Mon 11 August 2025 22:14, UK

Dan Neil has decided where his future lies as Sunderland ramp up their preparations for the upcoming Premier League season.

As they look to avoid an unwanted second-tier return, Sunderland have made high-profile signings like Granit Xhaka.

Xhaka played a key role when his former club Bayer Leverkusen won the Bundesliga and the German Cup in a remarkable 2023/24 campaign.

Meanwhile, fellow midfielder Neil has helped Sunderland climb back to the Premier League from League One.

Neil is set to stay with Sunderland (Credit: Getty)

Neil notched two goals and three assists in 44 Championship appearances for the Black Cats last term, helping them clinch promotion via the playoffs.

After excelling for the North East club in both League One and the second tier, the 23-year-old is now set for the challenge of Premier League football at the Stadium of Light.

The Telegraph’s Mike McGrath revealed via X on Monday, 11 August: “Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil has made decision on his future.

He’s going nowhere.

MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES

“Sources close to player say interest rejected from Premier League & La Liga clubs to stay and fight for his place at SAFC and fulfil boyhood dream to play for hometown club in PL.”

Football Insider verdict

https://x.com/mcgrathmike/status/1954975401085698523?s=19

Neil has represented the Stadium of Light club with distinction in both League One and the Championship, so it is clear to see why he wants to remain with his boyhood club on the next step of their journey in the Premier League.

Dan Neil statsAll competitions 2024/25Appearances48Goals2Assists3Neil is a key figure at Sunderland

The dynamic midfielder is likely to have less game time this season, though, because Sunderland have signed midfielders Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki, as well as Xhaka.

However, boss Regis Le Bris will still be thrilled that Neil has opted to stay in the North East, thanks to his outstanding leadership qualities at just 23 years old.

Furthermore, while the Academy of Light graduate may struggle to retain his starting 11 spot over the likes of Sadiki, the fact that he has attracted transfer interest from top-flight clubs in both England and Spain shows that he has what it takes to adjust to the Premier League.

Meanwhile, Raheem Sterling has been backed to join Sunderland in a Mackem News exclusive.

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