Sunderland are poised to sign Toulouse defender Dayann Methalie for approximately £26m, beating widespread competition for the France Under-21 international. According to club reports, Régis Le Bris is close to securing the 20-year-old versatile defender on a five-year deal, offering him Europa League football and a sizeable contingent of French-speaking teammates at the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland Close in on Dayann Methalie Transfer Deal
Dayann Methalie has verbally agreed to a five-year contract with Sunderland after Toulouse accepted a fee in the region of £26m, according to recent club updates. The 6ft 2in defender made 27 Ligue 1 appearances last season. He provides tactical flexibility for manager Régis Le Bris, operating comfortably as a left-back, wingback, or left-sided central defender in either a back three or a back four.
At Sunderland, Methalie joins a growing French-speaking core that includes Enzo Le Fée, Nordi Mukiele, and Habib Diarra. He becomes Le Bris’s second summer acquisition following the free-transfer arrival of Belgium right-back Thomas Meunier from Lille. Methalie will compete directly with Reinildo for the starting left-back role, bringing robust physicality and recovery pace to the squad.
Did you know? Dayann Methalie made 27 appearances in Ligue 1 for Toulouse last season before attracting attention from several clubs across Europe’s top leagues.
Newcastle United’s Transfer Strategy and Defensive Search
Newcastle United extensively scouted Methalie and reportedly pursued a deal in January, according to club insiders. However, Newcastle officials indicated they ultimately opted against recruiting the young defender this summer and submitted no formal bid, despite the player fitting their targeted £20m-£40m recruitment bracket.
Manager Eddie Howe remains active in the transfer market for defensive cover. Strengthening the right-back position is a priority following Kieran Trippier’s departure at the end of last season, while the club also requires additional left-back options.
Uncertain Futures for Bruno Guimarães and Joe Willock
Newcastle’s efforts to retain club captain Bruno Guimarães depend heavily on external interest. According to reports, Arsenal weighing an offer near £80m remains the primary factor for the 28-year-old midfielder, who is due to return to St James’ Park on Friday following a post-World Cup holiday in Brazil ahead of a training camp in La Manga.
Meanwhile, Joe Willock’s future at the club hangs in the balance. Newcastle rejected an opening offer of roughly £10m from Besiktas for the former Arsenal midfielder, though sources indicate the club would entertain bids closer to £20m.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is Dayann Methalie’s transfer fee?
Sunderland are acquiring Dayann Methalie from Toulouse for a fee of approximately £26m.
What positions can Dayann Methalie play?
Methalie can play as a left-back, wingback, or as a central defender in a back three or back four.
Who are Sunderland’s other summer signings?
Prior to Methalie, Sunderland signed Belgium right-back Thomas Meunier on a free transfer after he left Lille.
Did Newcastle United bid for Dayann Methalie?
No, despite extensive scouting and January interest, Newcastle opted against pursuing the defender this summer and submitted no bid.
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