Dayann Methalie ‘to join’ Sunderland as talks continue | OneFootball

Sunderland are closing in on a move for Toulouse defender Dayann Methalie, their second signing of the summer window. According to RMC Sport, the France Under-21 international has agreed a long-term contract and talks between the clubs continue, with a deal possible in the coming days.

The report added that the transfer would be a record sale for the Ligue 1 side, and that several clubs had shown interest. Interest over recent months included Newcastle United and Aston Villa, but Methalie has chosen Sunderland, the report said. He would follow Thomas Meunier in linking up with head coach Regis Le Bris and could get a Premier League opportunity in the Black Cats’ Europa League-bound squad.

Although widely described as a left-back, Methalie has also played as a left-sided centre-back, a wing-back and higher up on the left flank. His versatility would give Le Bris options across the left side.

Methalie is yet to make a senior France appearance, but he has four caps at Under-21s level. He debuted in October last year in a 6-0 win against the Faroe Islands, playing alongside Leny Yoro and Warren Zaine-Emery, and scored twice. He has also represented Les Bleus at Under-20 and Under-18 level.

Speaking to Telefoot towards the end of last season, he said of his future, "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."

Source: Sunderland Echo