Florent Ghisolfi explains Sunderland move for Thomas Meunier as defender outlines decision | OneFootball

Sunderland have signed Belgium international right-back Thomas Meunier on a two-year deal. The club confirmed he arrives after his Lille contract expired and will wear number 12, with a medical completed earlier this week. He is due to link up with Régis Le Bris’ squad in early August following his involvement with Belgium at the 2026 World Cup.

The 34-year-old brings more than 550 senior club appearances and 83 caps, strengthening a side preparing for Premier League and Europa League football. He rose from Belgium’s lower leagues to establish himself at Club Brugge, where he won the league and the cup.

He joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2016 and spent four years in the French capital, winning three league titles among other domestic honours. Subsequent spells followed at Borussia Dortmund, Trabzonspor and Lille. His arrival increases competition for Trai Hume at right-back and could also allow Nordi Mukiele to feature more regularly in central defence.

Director of football Florent Ghisolfi said Meunier’s experience, leadership and professionalism would benefit Sunderland on and off the pitch. He felt from the first conversations that the Belgian was a strong fit, praising his consistent high-level performances for major clubs and Belgium and his quality in both defensive and attacking phases.

Meunier said the club’s ambition and Europa League qualification were key factors in his decision, and he had other options before choosing a first taste of Premier League football. He hopes to bring his experience, give everything for the team and build a strong connection with supporters.

Source: Sunderland Echo