Sunderland bid for Dayann Methalie rejected, Toulouse ‘to seek’ bigger fee amid five-year agreement | OneFootball

Sunderland have intensified their move for Toulouse left back Dayann Mathalie, with the Ligue 1 side rejecting an opening offer of around £17 million, L’Equipe reports.

RMC reported on Monday evening that an agreement is in place with the 20-year-old on a five-year contract. However, there is still no deal between the clubs and Toulouse are holding out for a significant fee to sell.

Toulouse have already sold striker Emersonn to Ipswich Town in this window, with the 21-year-old due to face Sunderland on the Premier League’s opening day at Portman Road. Ipswich are believed to have paid about £24 million plus £3.5 million in add-ons.

The Ligue 1 club are thought to be seeking more than that to part with Mathalie, who is widely viewed as one of France’s leading prospects after a breakout season of 31 competitive appearances.

Left back is a priority for Sunderland after Dennis Cirkin’s departure, leaving Reinildo as the only senior option in Régis Le Bris’s squad. They are also looking to sign another right winger after Bertrand Traoré’s exit, while a left-sided centre back and extra attacking depth could follow. The club have been clear they are targeting quality over quantity this summer.

Source: Sunderland Echo