Credit: Imago
Mon 2 February 2026 17:10, UK
Dwight McNeil has been linked with a late exit from Everton.
The winter transfer window has revolved more around outgoings for Everton, as opposed to new arrivals.
As things stand, Everton are on course to sign Tyrique George from Chelsea, with a loan-to-buy agreement already in place, with that deal quite possibly set to be the only piece of incoming business on deadline day.
However, exits remain possible, and McNeil is the latest to be mooted for a departure from the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Credit: ImagoSunderland rumours shut down after Dwight McNeil link
McNeil has had a dreadful season for Everton, and that was only amplified by the fact that Harrison Armstrong was chosen to start on the right flank over him and Tyler Dibling.
The 26-year-old has managed just one goal contribution in 14 appearances for the Toffees in the Premier League this season, casting doubt over his future.
Sportsboom then reported on deadline day that Sunderland were considering a last-minute swoop for the Burnley star.
However, those rumours have been immediately shut down by Sunderland Echo journalist James Copley, who shared the latest via his X account.
Copley said: “Sources have played down links between Sunderland and Dwight McNeil, with the Everton winger not currently on the club’s radar.“
🚨 Sources have played down links between Sunderland and Dwight McNeil, with the Everton winger not currently on the club’s radar.
🔄 The main focus remains on two deals: Nilson Angulo (incoming) and Simon Adingra (outgoing).#SAFC
— James Copley (@JamesCopley_) February 2, 2026
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Sunderland are focusing on finalising a deal to sign Nilson Angulo from Anderlecht, which looks likely to be the only wide arrival at the Stadium of Light before 7pm.
However, it’s claimed that the deal is dependent on the future of Simon Adingra, who is undergoing a medical ahead of a proposed loan move to Ligue 1 side AS Monaco.
What does the future look like for McNeil?
Quite frankly, it looks bleak.
Even in the absence of Ndiaye, McNeil has failed to impress, and the pending arrival of George will push him even further down the pecking order.
Everton remain keen on signing Jack Grealish in the summer, despite the season-ending injury, and should that deal happen, it would almost certainly spell the end for McNeil on Merseyside.
The 26-year-old joined the Toffees in a £20million deal from Burnley back in 2022, but it is hard to see a future for him here beyond the summer.
McNeil will have just one year left on his Everton contract in the summer, meaning they would be unlikely to recoup the fee paid to sign him four years ago.
Stay up to date this winter with our Everton transfer tracker. Click to see every done deal at Hill Dickinson, plus expert reaction from our team of writers.