Sunderland have reportedly agreed a transfer deal to sign Dayann Methalie from Toulouse
Sunderland have reportedly agreed terms with young French defender Dayann Methalie ahead of a proposed move to the Stadium of Light.
Reports in France claim the Black Cats have agreed a five-year contract with the 20-year-old left-back, who is also able to play in the heart of defence.
Talks with Toulouse are ongoing to finalise a reported £25.7m deal for the French youth international, having impressed since breaking into the first team.
Fabrice Hawkins claims club-to-club talks are ongoing in order to finalise a deal, which would become a club-record sale for Toulouse.
Newcastle United have also been linked with a move for the young French defender, with the Magpies changing their approach in the transfer market this summer.
ChronicleLive understands Sunderland are keen on adding a left-back to their ranks ahead of their first European venture since 1973-74.
Dennis Cirkin left the club at the end of his contract, leaving Reinildo as the other left-back option at Regis Le Bris’ disposal.
The Black Cats have brought in just one signing ahead of the new campaign, with experienced defender Thomas Meunier joining as a free transfer following his departure from Lille.
Sunderland have kept a close eye on the French league throughout the campaign, with Methalie one of the stars who has caught the eye.
Le Bris made it clear he wanted to add three or four quality signings to the squad, with as many as five or six new players coming through the door.
“It is important to build a squad ready for both competitions,” Le Bris said following the win over York earlier this month.
“The Premier League will be our main target, so it is important to strengthen the group with three or four core players.
“We need to strengthen the foundations and, after that, we will need a full group to manage the demands.”