
David Moyes, the former Black Cats manager, has returned to the Goodison Park club and is apparently looking to add players to help the team in its Premier League survival effort.
Everton have been linked with a £15million swoop for Sunderland captain during the transfer window.
The national newspaper also notes that with Neil leading the team and Sunderland dominating the Championship, Everton might have trouble acquiring him this month.
With 18 months remaining on his contract, the Academy of Light graduate is reportedly in talks with the Wearsiders about a new agreement.
“David Moyes is an admirer of the midfielder, having tracked his career since he was at Sunderland when Neil was in the academy,” the Telegraph story also states.
This month, Moyes wants to strengthen his team in attack, including a striker, left-back, central midfield, and Neil’s position.

Given the current pricing of players moving from the second division to the Premier League and the fact that Neil still has 18 months left on his deal, Sunderland is anticipated to demand at least £15 million for him.
Although it is expected that the Black Cats would reject any interest during the January window due to their league position, Moyes reportedly dispatched scouts from Everton to attend Sunderland’s match against Burnley at Turf Moor on Friday night in anticipation of a possible transfer attempt.