Wales international Brennan Johnson is set to join Everton in a stunning swap deal with Crystal Palace, according to reports. The 25-year-old forward is at the centre of talks between the two Premier League clubs, with Everton winger Dwight McNeil poised to move in the opposite direction.
Johnson's recent career
Johnson has won 45 caps for Wales and enjoyed a memorable spell at Tottenham, scoring the winning goal in their 1-0 Europa League final victory over Manchester United in May 2025. He subsequently moved to Crystal Palace from Spurs in January in a deal worth £35m, but endured a difficult first half-season at Selhurst Park.
The Wales star failed to score in 26 appearances in all competitions for Palace, making 13 Premier League starts. Despite his struggles in front of goal, Johnson helped Palace reach the Conference League final and was part of the squad as they lifted their first European trophy after beating Rayo Vallecano 1-0.
McNeil's move to Palace
McNeil, 26, has already come close to joining the Eagles once before. Palace agreed a loan-to-buy deal for the former Burnley winger earlier this year, which would have resulted in a £20m permanent transfer this summer. However, the move collapsed after the required paperwork could not be completed before the deadline, despite McNeil having already undergone and passed a medical.
His partner Megan Sharpley subsequently criticised Palace on social media, questioning the impact the failed transfer had on the player's mental health. The deal has now been revived, although Johnson's involvement means the two clubs are exploring a very different arrangement.
McNeil at Everton
McNeil has been with Everton since completing a £20m move from Burnley in July 2022. He has made 128 appearances for the Toffees in all competitions, scoring 15 goals. Everton finished 13th in the Premier League last season, two places above Palace, but the Eagles will compete in the Europa League this term after their European success.
Interestingly, the two clubs are due to meet on the opening weekend of the new Premier League campaign, with Palace travelling to Everton's Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday, August 22. For Johnson, the proposed move would represent another major chapter in his club career, and potentially provide the Wales forward with an opportunity to revive his fortunes in the Premier League.
