Phil Smith's Sunderland Q&A: Thomas Meunier arrives ahead of medical, Matias Soulé latest and next moves | OneFootball

Sunderland Echo understands Sunderland are near their first summer signing, with Thomas Meunier in the north east and due a medical today. If all goes well, a two-year deal could follow within 24 hours.

The 34-year-old is a free agent after leaving Lille. Sunderland moved quickly amid interest from Hull City and Valencia, viewing him as leadership for a youthful squad back in Europe after over 50 years.

He played 35 games for Lille and stayed active with Belgium last season. An attacking full back, he offers a different creative profile. With Nordi Mukiele and Trai Hume in place, he is unlikely to start every game.

The move appears to end pursuit of Lutsharel Geertruida on a permanent, though his future is unresolved and a return looks highly unlikely.

Matias Soulé is training with AS Roma, yet expectation persists that he will leave. Roma intend to refresh their attack, so sales are likely and Soulé could be among them. Whether Sunderland meet the valuation, and whether the player chooses the move, remains unclear.

Sunderland are exploring a centre back, with Tarik Muharemović of Sassuolo admired, Leeds thought to lead, and a 50% Juventus sell-on inflating the fee.

A left back is needed after Dennis Cirkin’s exit and a right winger is the priority. Sunderland are working on Simon Adingra’s future, with Nilson Angulo providing cover, which would aid SCR and wages. Key players are not for sale unless an enormous bid arrives, and Eliezer Mayenda’s sale adds headroom.

Source: Sunderland Echo