Palace Criticised after Failed Move for Dwight McNeil
Everton winger’s deadline-day move collapses amid claims of poor communication
- Crystal Palace criticised after late collapse of Dwight McNeil transfer.
- Player completed medical but deal failed due to paperwork issues.
- McNeil’s partner says the move affected his mental wellbeing.
Crystal Palace have come under criticism following the collapse of a late transfer move for Everton winger Dwight McNeil, with the player’s partner accusing the club of mishandling the situation and impacting his mental wellbeing.
The Eagles had reportedly agreed a loan-to-buy deal for the 26-year-old, which included a £20 million permanent transfer scheduled for the summer. McNeil completed a medical examination and Palace submitted a deal sheet before the 19:00 GMT transfer deadline on Monday.
However, despite Everton being understood to have filed the required paperwork, sources told BBC Sport that the transfer fell through after Crystal Palace failed to complete the necessary documentation on their end before the deadline.
McNeil’s partner, Megan Sharpley, criticised the London club in a social media post, claiming the player received “radio silence” from Palace on deadline day evening.
She revealed that McNeil had been offered a four-and-a-half-year contract and that the couple had already begun preparations to relocate, only for the move to collapse without explanation.
Sharpley said the situation had been emotionally distressing, accusing the club of “messing” with the player’s mental health after plans to move their lives “hundreds of miles away” were abruptly derailed.
McNeil has made 120 appearances for Everton, scoring 15 goals and providing 19 assists, and remains with the Merseyside club following the failed transfer.
