West Bromwich Albion are reportedly preparing a January loan swoop for Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil as manager Ryan Mason seeks to add quality to his faltering squad.
Baggies Seek Reinforcements After Hull Defeat
The transfer speculation follows a disappointing 1-0 away defeat to Hull City on the weekend of 20th-21st December 2025. Oli McBurnie's first-half penalty at the MKM Stadium proved decisive, condemning West Brom to another loss on their travels. Despite dominating spells before the interval, Mason's side failed to convert their chances.
The result leaves West Brom in 16th place in the Championship table after 22 fixtures. The pressure is mounting on the head coach, whose side next face Bristol City at The Hawthorns on Boxing Day.
Midfield Target Identified
According to journalist Alan Nixon on his Patreon page, the Baggies have set their sights on Dan Neil. The 24-year-old Sunderland academy graduate has found first-team opportunities limited in the Premier League this season, opening the door for a temporary move.
Leicester City have also been mentioned as potential suitors for the South Shields-born player. Neil was instrumental in Sunderland's promotion from the Championship last season under Regis Le Bris, featuring in their 2-1 play-off final victory over Sheffield United at Wembley.
To date, he has made 199 appearances in all competitions for the Black Cats, the only club of his professional career. Former academy teammate Luke Molyneux previously told the Sunderland Echo of Neil's "phenomenal" natural ability and confidence, predicting he would go far in the game.
How Neil Could Fit at The Hawthorns
A move for Neil is viewed as a bid to strengthen West Brom's midfield options, providing increased competition and depth alongside the likes of Alex Mowatt and Ousmane Diakite.
The potential arrival comes at a critical time, with Mason expressing his frustration after the Hull loss. He lamented individual errors and a lack of discipline, stating: "The reality is, is that we’ve come away with absolutely nothing... It’s a lack of discipline and it’s not good enough."
He added that the team must take responsibility for their current poor form, acknowledging the pain of the defeat but emphasising the need to change their fortunes quickly.
