Crystal Palace co-owner and chairman Steve Parish has reportedly contacted Megan Sharpley, the partner of Everton player Dwight McNeil, in an effort to resolve lingering issues ahead of McNeil's impending transfer to the club. The move comes after Sharpley publicly criticized Crystal Palace following the collapse of a potential January transfer.
McNeil and Brennan Johnson, who is expected to move to Everton, have been granted permission to undergo medical examinations for their respective transfers. The January deal for McNeil was nearly completed, with the winger having undergone a medical for a loan move that included a £20 million obligation to buy. Crystal Palace submitted a deal sheet, but reportedly failed to finalize the necessary paperwork before the deadline, leading to the transfer falling through.
Following the failed January move, Sharpley expressed her dismay on Instagram, accusing the club of mishciel's mental health and describing the experience as "cruel." She detailed how McNeil had been "toyed with until the final minute" and was left "broken hearted with nothing but confusion" after promises were made and then rescinded without explanation.
Sharpley's February statement highlighted the emotional toll the situation took on McNeil, who she said was left "distressed" and in tears. She questioned the football industry's approach to player welfare, particularly concerning mental health, stating that "no matter of money, we all deserve to be treated with respect, kindness and fairly." She also referenced her own serious health battle in late 2023, noting McNeil's supportive role during her surgery.
McNeil himself shared Sharpley's post, indicating he was still uncertain about the specifics of the failed transfer but was motivated by the experience. He affirmed his commitment as an Everton player. "I will use this as motivation," he stated. "I love you moo, I couldn't thank you enough for all of your love and support."
According to The Times, Parish's intervention aims to smooth over the situation, allowing the current transfer to proceed. Both McNeil and Johnson were undergoing medicals on Monday, with four-year contracts prepared for each player. The report indicates that Sharpley felt the "cruelty" of the football world and questioned the industry's acceptance of toying with players' emotions, regardless of their financial status. She emphasized that behind the public perception, players experience significant emotional distress.
McNeil, who joined Everton from Burnley in 2022, has made 128 appearances for the club. The current transfer, along with Johnson's move to Everton, appears to be moving forward after the club's efforts to mend relations with McNeil's partner.