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Everton and Crystal Palace Complete Swap Deal: Dwight McNeil Joins Palace, Brennan Johnson Moves to Everton

Everton and Crystal Palace have agreed on a swap deal involving wingers Dwight McNeil and Brennan Johnson. Both players are set to undergo medical examinations before signing initial four-year contracts with their new clubs, marking a significant move ahead of the new Premier League season.

Swap Details and Background

The deal brings Dwight McNeil to Selhurst Park, while Wales international forward Brennan Johnson will head to Goodison Park. This exchange revives McNeil’s potential move to Palace, which fell through last February due to paperwork problems, despite a £20 million loan-to-buy agreement.

Partner Voices Frustration Over Previous Transfer Collapse

McNeil’s partner, Megan Sharpley, expressed her disappointment on social media following the failed transfer earlier this year. She highlighted the emotional toll it took, questioning why football can disregard mental health issues for young players despite their high earnings.

"To have something promised to you, to have been dragged along on an emotional rollercoaster and to be toyed with until the final minute. For that to be torn away from you at the last second with absolutely no explanation has hurt more than I can say."

Players’ Recent Records and Club Status

  • Brennan Johnson: Joined Palace in January for £35 million from Tottenham Hotspur after scoring the winning goal in the 2025 Europa League final; however, he failed to score in 26 appearances for Palace.
  • Dwight McNeil: Since signing for Everton in 2022 for £20 million from Burnley, he has scored 15 goals in 128 matches.
  • Crystal Palace: Won the Conference League last season and secured a spot in the Europa League.
  • Everton: Finished 13th in the Premier League table last season.

Upcoming Challenge: Opening Day Meeting

Both teams are rushing to complete registration formalities so the players can participate in the Premier League opener. Notably, Everton and Palace will face each other at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, August 22. This match presents an immediate test for McNeil and Johnson, who will be up against their former sides.

Upcoming Fixtures

  • Everton vs Newcastle United: August 12, 2026, 18:15
  • Freiburg vs Crystal Palace: August 15, 2026, 14:00

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