Everton in Talks Over McNeil and Johnson Swap Deal with Crystal Palace

Everton is reportedly in talks with Crystal Palace over a potential swap deal involving Dwight McNeil and Brennan Johnson. According to The Times, both clubs may have come up with a solution to the issue of McNeil's lack of playing time at Goodison Park.

What happened?

McNeil, 26, has fallen down the pecking order at Everton and is understood to be keen on a move away for more regular action. Johnson, 25, only joined Crystal Palace from Tottenham for a reported £35 million in January, but has failed to score a single goal in his 26 games.

Why it matters for Everton

The Toffees are currently 13th in the Premier League, 36 points behind leaders Arsenal, and have scored 47 goals this season, conceding 50. They have lost their last four games and are in need of a boost to their squad.

What comes next?

The next fixture for Everton is against Ipswich at home on September 19, but the swap deal with Crystal Palace could be a major talking point in the coming days. The Toffees will be hoping to strengthen their squad and improve their chances of a top-half finish in the league.

As of August 9, 2026, Everton's league standing is 13th in the Premier League, with 49 points from 38 games, and a recent form of LLDDL. They have scored 47 goals and conceded 50 this season, and are 36 points behind leaders Arsenal in the title race. Their last result was a 1-0 loss to Tottenham on May 24, 2026, and they have lost their last four games in a row.