Everton and Palace finalize player exchange involving McNeil and Johnson
Everton and Crystal Palace have reached an agreement on a swap deal that will see winger Dwight McNeil head to Selhurst Park, while Wales international Brennan Johnson makes the mo…
Everton and Crystal Palace have reached an agreement
Everton and Crystal Palace have reached an agreement on a swap deal that will see winger Dwight McNeil head to Selhurst Park, while Wales international Brennan Johnson makes the move to Goodison Park. The arrangement was confirmed by sources close to both clubs on Tuesday, ending weeks of speculation about the two players' futures.
McNeil, 25, has been a regular feature in Everton's starting lineup this season, contributing three goals and four assists in the Premier League. His ability to operate on either flank has made him an attractive option for Palace manager Oliver Glasner, who has been seeking additional width and creativity in his attacking unit.
Johnson, 23, joined Palace from Nottingham Forest in a club-record deal last summer but has struggled to cement a consistent starting role. The Welshman's pace and direct running are seen as a better fit for Everton's counter-attacking approach under Sean Dyche, who has long admired the forward's work rate and versatility.
The swap is structured as a straight player
The swap is structured as a straight player exchange without any transfer fee changing hands, though performance-related add-ons have been included in both players' contracts. Medicals are scheduled for later this week, with the deal expected to be officially announced once the January transfer window opens.
Both clubs are hopeful that the change of scenery will benefit the players, who have faced differing levels of scrutiny at their current clubs. Everton fans will be eager to see Johnson add a new dimension to their attack, while Palace supporters will look to McNeil to provide the final ball that has sometimes been lacking in their build-up play.
League approval is still required, but no obstacles are anticipated given that both players are domestic transfers. The deal marks a rare example of two Premier League clubs agreeing to a mutually beneficial swap in what has been a quiet winter window so far.