“Could be the ideal candidate” – Middlesbrough eyeing Sunderland transfer swoop: The verdict

This article is part of Football League World’s ‘The Verdict’ series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Middlesbrough are keen on Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil, Football League World has exclusively revealed. 

A host of clubs have been scouting the impressive 20-year-old, including the likes of Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Wolves.

Boro are also said to be interested in Neil but would he be a good signing? And would he fit in Chris Wilder’s system?

We quizzed our FLW writers…

Declan Harte 

Neil has played in midfield as part of a back-three system during this breakout season for Sunderland.

Neil has also been quite impressive in that role, earning seven assists for the side and even contributing three goals of his own.

At only 20-years old, he also has plenty of time to continue developing and learning about his game.

Wilder would be a great manager for Neil to work under and would fit his system well.

This could be a really good addition to the Boro side for next season and an exciting next step for Neil in his career.

Adam Jones

Looking forward, they do need someone to come in and succeed Jonny Howson, so the 20-year-old could be the ideal candidate to come in.

However, it would probably make sense to play him in a more advanced position considering he’s scored three times and recorded seven assists in 35 league matches.

You could argue he isn’t needed higher up with Marcus Tavernier, Matt Crooks, Riley McGree and Martin Payero all available as options – but whether the latter will remain at the club beyond the summer remains to be seen with the Argentine only playing a limited number of times under Chris