Sunderland ‘lining up’ Dayann Methalie move as Timothée Pembélé and Dennis Cirkin situations evolve | OneFootball

Sunderland are assessing defensive options for a Premier League and Europa League season, with links to Dayann Methalie and developments on Timothée Pembélé and Dennis Cirkin. Thomas Meunier has already joined on a free, signing a two-year deal.

Football Insider reports Sunderland are ‘lining up’ a move for Toulouse left-back Methalie as another option on the left of Régis Le Bris’ defence. The report adds there is no indication of a bid or advanced talks.

The 20-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough at boyhood club Toulouse last term, making 28 Ligue 1 appearances with two goals and one assist. A France Under-21 international, he is viewed as a long-term prospect, with Le Bris and director of football Florent Ghisolfi continuing to scour the French market. The report also suggests Sunderland believe he could step into Premier League football.

He was also linked with Newcastle United in January. Asked about outside interest then, Methalie 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.

L’Équipe claims Timothée Pembélé is set for a permanent return to Le Havre after a loan there in the second half of last season. Signed from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023, the 23-year-old struggled for regular minutes under Le Bris. A permanent move could suit the player and help streamline Sunderland’s squad.

Dennis Cirkin departed at the end of his contract and is attracting interest, with Schalke monitoring his situation. The former Tottenham academy player joined Sunderland in 2021 and was influential during the rise from League One to the Premier League.

Source: Sunderland Echo