FC Köln have begun efforts to sign Dan Neil from Sunderland, as reported by Sky Deutschland’s Patrick Berger on Tuesday evening.
The 24-year-old was born in South Shields, came through the Sunderland youth system, and has only ever played for the one club.
During the 2024/25 Championship season, as the club battled for promotion to the Premier League, Neil was an almost ever present. He made 48 appearances across all competitions.
Since Sunderland made their way back to the promised land, things have been more difficult for Neil. He’s made five appearances so far this season, totalling less than 200 minutes.
The midfielder isn’t getting the prominence his career needs and whilst he clearly loves the club, and the fans send that emotion back to him, an exit is now on the cards. With a contract expiring at the end of the season, there’s a big decision to be made.
Now, there’s the chance of a move to Germany.
Sunderland player to have multiple options
FC Köln have started talks ahead of taking Neil as a free agent in the summer. They’re not the only ones interested, with unnamed Bundesliga and English sides (division not specified) also in the picture.
Towards the end of last year, he was also linked with a move to AS Roma.
The German club are currently 11th out out of 20 in the German top flight. However, they’re just five points clear of Heidenheim in the relegation places.
Just like Sunderland, FC Köln were promoted from the second division last season. Unlike, Sunderland they managed to win the league, but they’re not quite as safe as the Black Cats have made themselves.
Now it’s down to Neil and his representatives to decide whether an adventure abroad is the preferred outcome. Whilst attractive, it’s likely higher wages would be on offer in England than at FC Köln.
The expectation is that Dan Neil leaves Sunderland in the summer after nearly a lifetime with the club.
