Everton are in talks with Crystal Palace over a potential move for Brennan Johnson, with Dwight McNeil possibly heading in the opposite direction to Selhurst Park. The discussions could lead to both wingers completing permanent transfers as the clubs continue negotiations. Johnson has been a long-standing target for Everton, dating back to his time at Nottingham Forest before his move to Tottenham Hotspur. McNeil, meanwhile, has just one year remaining on his current Everton contract.
Johnson’s difficult Palace spell
The 25-year-old Wales international only joined Palace from Tottenham in January in a £35million (€40m; $47m) deal, which was a club-record fee at the time. However, Johnson has struggled to establish himself as a key figure in south London. He made 26 appearances for Palace, starting 16 matches and registering two assists. He was also an unused substitute when Palace defeated Rayo Vallecano in the UEFA Conference League final in May.
McNeil’s previous move collapsed
McNeil came close to joining Palace during the winter transfer window, but the move collapsed after the required paperwork was not completed in time. The 26-year-old had undergone a medical and a deal sheet was submitted, giving Palace an additional two hours beyond the deadline to finalise the transfer. However, the final documents did not arrive, and the deadline passed without further communication from the south London club. Talks have now resumed, with a potential arrangement involving Johnson and McNeil under discussion.
Everton record and personal frustration
McNeil has spent four seasons at Everton since arriving from Burnley in 2022, making 128 appearances across all competitions. The former England youth international has scored 15 goals and supplied 19 assists for the Merseyside club, while also featuring in attacking midfield roles.
Despite his contribution, he was considered surplus to requirements last season, which prompted the attempted Palace move. Following the collapsed transfer, McNeil shared a lengthy Instagram post from his partner Megan Sharpley, which read: “(To have something) torn away from you at the last second, with absolutely no explanation. “Going from everything — to radio silence, no phone call, no communication, and be left, broken hearted with nothing but confusion hurts more than I can say.”