Rangers and West Ham face transfer setback as Ipswich move ahead for Sunderland midfielder
Rangers’ pursuit of a Sunderland midfielder appears to have hit a major obstacle, with West Ham United also set to miss out as an English Championship rival takes control of the race.
The Ibrox club remain active in the January transfer window as head coach Danny Rohl looks to strengthen his squad in the push towards the top of the Premiership. Midfielder Tochi Chukwuani has already arrived ahead of Rangers’ league clash with Dundee, where the Light Blues will aim to close the gap at the summit while leaders Hearts face third-placed Celtic.
Further reinforcements in midfield are believed to be on Rohl’s agenda, with Sunderland’s Dan Neil strongly linked. The 24-year-old has fallen out of favour at the Premier League newcomers despite captaining them to promotion last season. Rangers and West Ham have both been credited with interest, but fresh reports suggest Ipswich Town have surged ahead in the chase.
According to the Daily Record, Ipswich are now leading the pursuit as they target automatic promotion from the Championship. Neil is reportedly leaning towards that challenge rather than a Scottish title race or a Premier League relegation battle.
The report states:
“Ipswich chiefs are pushing hard to beat Rangers to Sunderland star Dan Neil. The Black Cats midfielder is high on Danny Rohl’s Ibrox wishlist. Record Sport understands the Portman Road club have moved to the front of the queue after making their approach over the weekend.
“West Ham — who defeated Regis Le Bris’ side 3–1 on Saturday — also hold an interest, but Kieran McKenna’s Championship high-flyers are in the driving seat. Boyhood Sunderland supporter Neil was left out of the clash at the London Stadium as talks continued. Rangers had registered their interest earlier this month with Sunderland sporting director Florent Ghisolfi.”
Away from transfer matters, Rohl has confirmed that Rangers youth coach Steven Smith will remain part of the senior coaching staff until at least the end of the season. Smith stepped in as interim boss earlier in the campaign following the departure of Russell Martin.
Speaking to club media, Smith said:
“It’s a role I’m really enjoying. I felt I was ready for this step for some time, and it’s been very rewarding so far. I’ve taken the long route — starting again in the academy with the Under-9s and Under-10s and gradually working my way up.
“I believe I’ve earned my place in this role, but the most important thing is that I’m enjoying it. Results have largely been positive, although we know there’s still plenty of work ahead.
“One of the big advantages of academy football, especially with the younger age groups, is that there’s less pressure. You’re allowed to make mistakes and learn away from the spotlight. I feel that experience has prepared me well, and I’ve been ready to step into the first-team environment for some time now.”