Ipswich Town have completed the signing of midfielder Dan Neil, adding a proven Championship performer to Kieran McKenna’s squad for the remainder of the season.
The Club confirmed the deal on Tuesday, with the 22‑year‑old set to wear the number six shirt during his time at Portman Road. Neil becomes the second signing of the January transfer window following the arrival of Anis Mehmeti from Bristol City.
Neil, 24, arrives with significant experience despite his age. He has spent his entire senior career at Sunderland, playing a central role in two promotions that lifted the Black Cats from League One to the Premier League.
He captained the side during the second of those promotions, secured in the Sky Bet Championship Play-Off Final at Wembley in May 2025. In total, he made 201 appearances for Sunderland after making his professional debut in September 2020, scoring 12 goals.
Ipswich Town Manager Kieran McKenna welcomed the addition, highlighting Neil’s pedigree and versatility as key factors in the move. “We’re happy to add Dan to the group,” McKenna also said. “He’s a versatile midfielder who can play in a couple of different roles. He, of course, has a lot of experience in the Championship, including winning a promotion last season, so he’s a player with good experience, good pedigree and good character who I’m sure will be a strong addition for us for the rest of the season.”
Neil arrives after a long spell at Sunderland, where he established himself as one of the division’s most reliable midfielders. Reflecting on the move, he spoke openly about the timing being right for a new challenge. “I’ve been at Sunderland for a very long time, and it was an unbelievable chapter in my life and career, but I’m ready for the next chapter now,” he said. “After a lot of thought, it was clear Ipswich would be the perfect fit for that.”
The midfielder also emphasised how naturally his style aligns with McKenna’s approach. “The way the manager wants to play football and the way I like to play is the same, basically,” he explained. “I’m a central midfielder who likes to get on the ball and tries to dictate games as much as I can… I’m vocal in terms of organising the tea,m and those are probably my main qualities.”
With Town pushing to maintain momentum in the Championship, Neil’s arrival adds further depth and leadership to a key area of the pitch. “I can’t wait to get started,” he added.
