Why Everton will have one eye on Grant Xhaka’s transfer to Sunderland

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Everton have a lot of areas of the pitch that need strengthening ahead of the fast-approaching 2025/26 Premier League season.

David Moyes is in the market for a right-winger and has made Real Sociedad’s Japanese attacker Takefuso Kubo a top target.

Everton are considering a bid for Kubo after an impressive season for the Spanish outfit, scoring seven goals whilst laying on four assists.

David Moyes and his recruitment chiefs are also surveying the market for a central midfielder following the departures of Abdoulaye Doucoure and Orel Mangala.

And, Everton could actually move a step closer to signing one of their long-term targets because of Sunderland’s impending new signing Granit Xhaka.

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Sunderland signing Granit Xhaka could open door for Dan Neil to join Everton

After gaining promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs, Sunderland have wasted no time in getting new signings through the door.

And, many have been impressed by the calibre of player they’ve been able to attract, with the likes of Everton target Habib Diarra joining Regis Le Bris’ squad.

Now, according to David Ornstein, Sunderland are on the verge of signing Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka, who is sure to take a starting spot.

That puts Dan Neil’s future into doubt, as it looks like the 23-year-old will be forced to play a bit-part role this season.

Everton were exploring a deal to sign Neil during the January transfer window, but the Black Cats were firm in their stance that he was not for sale.

That could change with Xhaka coming in, so perhaps Moyes should consider revisiting the deal and launching a bid.

The Friedkins love Dan Neil

Everton aren’t the only club who have shown an interest in Neil this year.

Funnily enough, the Friedkin Group’s other owned club Roma are keen on the former England youth international.

It’s understood that Dan Friedkin is personally a big admirer of Neil, so the Sunderland captain is certainly one to keep an eye on.

With Everton so short of options in the middle of the park, it wouldn’t at all be surprising to see them reignite their interest.

Sunderland value Neil at around £15m, making it a very feasible deal to do for the cash-rich Friedkins.