Sunderland Close in on Dayann Methalie Signing
Sunderland are poised to sign the long-time Newcastle target Dayann Methalie from Toulouse. The France Under-21s defender, who can play left-back or wingback and also operate in the centre, has attracted widespread interest this summer but Régis Le Bris now appears close to acquiring him for about £26m. Next fixture: vs Bournemouth (away, 2026-10-17).
What's the Latest on the Transfer Window?
Sunderland are close to signing Dayann Methalie from Toulouse, with the France Under-21s defender reportedly set to join the club for about £26m. Newcastle had extensively scouted Methalie, who made 27 Ligue 1 appearances for Toulouse last season, and reportedly tried to sign him in January. However, the club have now indicated they opted against the idea of recruiting the 20-year-old and have not submitted a bid this summer.
Why is Sunderland's Signing of Methalie Important?
Sunderland can offer the 6ft 2in defender Europa League football and he is understood to have verbally agreed a five-year deal at the Stadium of Light, where he would not merely be coached by a compatriot in Le Bris but be part of a sizeable contingent of French-speaking players including Enzo Le Fée, Nordi Mukiele and Habib Diarra. Methalie will be Le Bris’s second summer signing after the arrival of the Belgium right-back Thomas Meunier, who arrived on a free transfer after leaving Lille.
What Comes Next for Sunderland?
While Methalie is likely to face considerable competition from Reinildo to establish himself as Sunderland’s first-choice left-back, his amalgam of impressive recovery pace, robust physicality and assured left foot have seen him shine as a left-sided central defender in a back three and a back four. Newcastle, meanwhile, remain in the market for cover at left-back and right-back, with the latter position one Eddie Howe is particularly anxious to reinforce after Kieran Trippier’s departure at the end of last season.
