Sunderland bid for Dayann Methalie rejected as Toulouse ‘to hold out’ for bumper fee | OneFootball

L’Equipe reports that Toulouse have rejected Sunderland’s opening offer, around £17 million, for left-back Dayann Mathalie, with the Ligue 1 club holding out for a bumper fee. Talks are ongoing.

RMC reported on Monday that Sunderland have reached agreement with the 20-year-old on a five-year contract, but a deal between the clubs is not yet in place.

The initial proposal falls short of Toulouse’s valuation. The French side sold striker Emersonn to Ipswich Town for around £24 million plus up to £3.5 million in add-ons, and are seeking an improvement on that to sell Mathalie. Ipswich face Sunderland on the opening day at Portman Road.

Mathalie is widely regarded as one of France’s leading prospects after a breakout campaign in which he made 31 competitive appearances.

Left-back is a priority for Régis Le Bris after Dennis Cirkin’s exit, leaving Reinildo as the only senior option on that flank.

Sunderland are also looking to sign another right winger following Bertrand Traoré’s departure. A left-sided centre-back and extra attacking depth are possible, with the club prioritising quality over quantity this summer.

Source: Sunderland Echo