Dayann Methalie ‘wants’ Sunderland as £25.7m Toulouse talks continue | OneFootball

Sunderland have been handed a major boost in their bid for Dayann Methalie, with the Toulouse left-back said to prefer a move as talks with the French club continue.

Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri reported on X that Methalie wants Sunderland, adding that the Ligue 1 side have raised their valuation to £25.7m and that fresh discussions are expected.

Sunderland are understood to have stepped up their pursuit this week and to have agreed a five-year contract with the 20-year-old, though agreement with Toulouse is still required. The latest offer is said to be worth more than £21.4m including add-ons.

L’Équipe previously reported that an opening bid of around £17m was rejected by Toulouse.

The French club’s stance has also been shaped by the recent sale of striker Emersonn to Ipswich Town, believed to be for about £24m with a further £3.5m in add-ons.

Methalie made 31 appearances in his breakthrough campaign and is regarded as one of France’s leading young prospects. Interest has emerged from elsewhere, but Sunderland appear encouraged by his desire to join Régis Le Bris’s side.

Left-back has been a priority for Sunderland since Dennis Cirkin departed earlier this summer, with Reinildo currently the only established senior option. The club are also seeking a right winger after Bertrand Traoré’s exit, while a left-sided centre-back and extra attacking depth remain possibilities, with emphasis on quality over quantity.

Source: Sunderland Echo