McNeil and Johnson Swap Deal Closing In as Everton and Palace Move Fast

Everton and Crystal Palace are closing in on a straight swap deal, Dwight McNeil to Palace, Brennan Johnson to Everton, with medicals reportedly possible as soon as Monday.

The Times’ Paul Joyce reports the deal progressing quickly, with both clubs said to be optimistic and no additional fee involved either way.

This is a second attempt for both clubs: McNeil’s £20m move to Palace collapsed on paperwork in January despite him passing a medical, while Johnson arrived from Tottenham that same window for a club-record £35m but has failed to score in 26 Palace appearances.

Both players have proven track records elsewhere, Johnson scored 27 goals for Spurs including a Europa League final winner, McNeil has 15 goals and 19 assists since joining Everton in 2022, and both need a fresh start with regular minutes.

With medicals reportedly imminent and neither club wanting a repeat of January’s collapse, this looks close to being finalised.