Sunderland Fail With ‘Package Proposal’ For Player | OneFootball

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Sunderland have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Dayann Methalie after Toulouse rejected a ‘package proposal’ that would have represented a club-record sale for the French outfit.

Regis Le Bris’ side have already reinforced the right-back position this summer with the arrival of Thomas Meunier on a free transfer.

To strengthen the left-back position, the Black Cats have been pursuing Methalie, who enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with Toulouse last season.

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Sunderland reached an agreement with Methalie over personal terms last month, with the Frenchman viewing a move to the Stadium of Light as his preferred next step.

Toulouse, however, have stood firm over their valuation of the left-back, leaving the financial gap between the clubs as a stumbling block.

There have also been indications of competition for the defender, with Newcastle United among the clubs emerging in the frame.

In an attempt to unlock the deal, Sunderland tabled a €33m ‘package proposal’ in the hope of securing Methalie’s signature.

According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Toulouse have rejected’Sunderland’s offer, deeming it insufficient to prise the Frenchman away from the club.

The Black Cats’ proposal would have eclipsed Toulouse’s previous record sale, yet the Ligue 1 outfit have instead opted to maintain their position over the defender’s valuation.

Whether Sunderland return with an improved proposal, and precisely how wide the valuation divide remains, is unclear, although further developments could follow in the coming days.

Toulouse have already sanctioned the departure of Emersonn to Ipswich Town for a sizeable profit, while former Leeds United star Charlie Cresswell’s initial loan move to Rennes is also set to become permanent next season, providing the French side with further financial room.

Given Methalie’s desire to make the switch, Sunderland could yet revisit the negotiations with another proposal on the table.

However, given other clubs are now also showing interest in Methalie, Toulouse could look to encourage a bidding war.

Sunderland are also actively working on a deal for another defensive addition in Nathaniel Adjei, although they have to fend off other parties’ interest in the Lorient man.