Sunderland are continuing negotiations with Toulouse over a potential transfer for left-back Dayann Methalie, having already agreed personal terms with the 20-year-old. The Black Cats submitted a bid of around £17m, which was rejected by the Ligue 1 side, but talks are ongoing over a fee.
Methalie, yet to make his senior international debut, is highly rated in France and has reportedly given Sunderland the green light, informing Toulouse he wants the move. Toulouse president Olivier Cloarec confirmed discussions have been taking place for three to four weeks.
Toulouse Holding Out for Record Fee
Toulouse are seeking a club-record fee for Methalie, after selling Brazilian striker Emerson to Ipswich Town for £27.5m plus add-ons. Reports in France suggest an offer of around £25.7m would be sufficient to secure the deal.
“Dayann is one of the players who are very much in demand this summer, as well as others,” Cloarec said. “There are discussions with Sunderland and interest from other clubs. Today, we are discussing with Sunderland but there is no agreement between the two clubs. We've been discussing with Sunderland for three or four weeks.”
Left-Back Priority for Sunderland
Sunderland have made left-back a priority position, with Dennis Cirkin leaving as a free agent and Arthur Masuaku expected to depart, leaving Reinildo as the only senior option. Florent Ghisolfi is leading the recruitment push, and activity is expected to increase following the World Cup.
Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris declined to comment directly on Methalie ahead of a pre-season friendly against Leeds United, joking he “didn't know the player” before laughing off the question.
Le Bris on Transfer Strategy
Le Bris admitted Sunderland cannot compete with the Premier League's biggest spenders, even after qualifying for the Europa League. “The market is really tight, intense, expensive as well,” he told Chronicle Live. “We want to stay on the same line. Here, Sunderland is a club with a specific identity, so the fit with the new signings has to be really clean.
“It means that we won't buy a player already ready for the high competition. It means £60, £70, £80 million. It doesn't make sense for us as a club.”
Le Bris added that European qualification has made it easier to convince players, but the club's approach remains focused on development and identity.
