Everton and Crystal Palace confirm Dwight McNeil-Brennan Johnson swap

August 12, 2026

Key takeaways

Brennan Johnson, with 45 Wales caps, joins Everton and says he “immediately wanted to come and be part” of the club
Dwight McNeil moves to Crystal Palace after scoring 15 goals and providing 19 assists in 128 games for Everton
Both clubs meet on 22 August at Hill Dickinson Stadium in the Premier League opener

Johnson excited by Everton move

Brennan Johnson expressed his enthusiasm after completing his move to Everton. “There were a lot of reasons why I was so keen to join – the manager, the players, the direction the team is going in,” he said. Johnson believes Everton can push for European competition and added, “Everton has the ambition to win trophies – and I believe we can do it.”

McNeil joins Palace after successful spell at Everton

Dwight McNeil, who joined Everton from Burnley in 2022, has now signed for Crystal Palace. He contributed 15 goals and 19 assists in 128 appearances for the Toffees. McNeil is eager to be part of Palace’s recent success. “The lads have had some great success over the last two seasons. It’s something that I want to be a part of,” he said.

Palace chairman praises new signing

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish welcomed McNeil’s arrival. “He is a player with proven ability in the Premier League,” Parish commented. Palace have lifted the FA Cup, Community Shield and Europa Conference League in the past two seasons, achievements that McNeil hopes to build upon.

Everton and Crystal Palace will face each other on 22 August at Hill Dickinson Stadium, marking the opening weekend of the Premier League campaign.