Dayann Methalie ‘agrees’ long-term Sunderland move as talks continue | OneFootball

Sunderland are believed to be closing in on Toulouse left-back Dayann Methalie, who has also been linked with Newcastle United and Aston Villa. The move would be their second of the summer as Regis Le Bris shapes a Europa League-bound squad.

RMC Sport reports that Methalie has agreed a long-term contract with Sunderland, with talks between the clubs ongoing. The deal is said to be worth about £25m and would represent a record sale for Toulouse, and could be completed in the coming days. The report adds that several clubs showed interest but the defender chose Sunderland.

Although widely described as a left-back, Methalie can also operate as a left-sided centre-back, wing-back or winger. That flexibility would give Le Bris extra options across the left flank.

Methalie has not yet played for France at senior level, but has four Under-21 caps. He debuted in October, scoring twice in a 6-0 win over the Faroe Islands alongside Leny Yoro and PSG’s Warren Zaine-Emery. He has also represented Les Bleus at Under-20 and Under-18 level.

Asked last season about links to Aston Villa and Newcastle, he said: “It is flattering. One day, I will have to leave. I would like to play at the highest level. For now, I have to keep doing what I’m doing,” he told Telefoot.

Source: Sunderland Echo