OFFICIAL: Rangers Complete the Signing of Dan Neil on a Three-Year Deal
Rangers have officially strengthened their midfield after confirming the signing of Dan Neil on a three-year contract, subject to international clearance.
The 24-year-old arrives at Ibrox following an impressive spell with Sunderland, where he established himself as one of the club’s most influential players before spending the second half of last season on loan at Ipswich Town. During his loan spell, Neil made 16 Championship appearances, helping the Tractor Boys secure promotion to the Premier League.
The move represents another important piece of business for manager Derek McInnes as he continues to reshape his squad ahead of the new campaign.
Born in South Shields, Neil is a product of Sunderland’s renowned Academy of Light and leaves his boyhood club after making an outstanding 201 senior appearances, scoring 12 goals and developing into one of the Black Cats’ most respected leaders.
Perhaps his greatest achievement came during the 2024/25 season when he captained Sunderland to promotion to the Premier League. Wearing the captain’s armband, Neil inspired his side to a dramatic 2-1 victory over Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final at Wembley, ending Sunderland’s eight-year absence from England’s top flight.
Across that memorable campaign, he featured in 47 league matches and scored twice, underlining both his consistency and importance to the team.
Speaking after completing the move, Neil admitted he is eager to begin the next chapter of his career.
«”It is a new chapter for myself, and I am really excited to be signing for Rangers. I’m really looking forward to what the next few years can bring.»
«”I have played for Sunderland for a number of years and the weight and expectation of the fans to win every week and the feeling of it making or breaking people’s weekends is something that drives me.»
«”I’ve spoken to many people who have been here, and they said it’s a very similar feeling. As a character and a person, that really drives me to give 110 per cent every day, and I need that in my career.”»
Rangers manager Derek McInnes also expressed his delight at securing the midfielder’s signature, describing Neil as an ideal addition to the squad.
«”I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Dan to the club. He will be an excellent addition to our squad.»
«”He is a technically gifted midfielder who is strong in possession, can contribute goals and brings tremendous energy to the team.»
«”At 24, we are signing a player who is hungry and ambitious, but who already possesses significant experience and leadership qualities, having captained Sunderland to promotion to the Premier League.»
«”I’m really looking forward to working with Dan throughout pre-season as we prepare for the challenges ahead.”»
Neil is expected to add composure, leadership and energy to the Rangers midfield as the club prepares for a demanding season in domestic competition and Europe.
With pre-season now underway, Rangers supporters will be hoping the former Sunderland captain can quickly adapt to life at Ibrox and become another key figure in McInnes’ rebuilding project.
