Sunderland’s pursuit of highly-rated Toulouse left-back Dayann Methalie has taken a new twist after verbal talks between the clubs, with the player’s agent now speaking publicly for the first time.
The 20-year-old France Under-21 international has been one of the Black Cats’ top targets this summer, and sources confirm that discussions between Sunderland and Toulouse have moved beyond initial enquiries into more concrete verbal negotiations.
Methalie, who stands at 6ft 1in and is regarded as one of the most promising young defenders in Ligue 1, is understood to have already agreed personal terms with Sunderland. The Black Cats are prepared to pay in the region of €30 million (£26m) to secure his signature, a fee that would represent a club-record sale for Toulouse.
However, the situation has become more complex in recent days. While Sunderland remain confident of completing the deal, Toulouse are holding firm on their valuation and are said to be seeking closer to €35 million including add-ons. This has led to a brief pause in formal talks as both clubs reassess their positions.
Speaking exclusively about the situation, Methalie’s agent has now broken his silence.
“Dayann is very interested in the project at Sunderland,” the agent said. “He has spoken with the coach and the sporting director, and he likes what he has heard. The Premier League is a big motivation for him, and the chance to play regular football in a competitive environment is important.”
The agent added: “There have been verbal discussions between the clubs. Nothing is final yet, but we are optimistic that a solution can be found. Dayann wants to take the next step in his career, and Sunderland are a serious option.”
Sunderland are currently leading the race for the young Frenchman, having moved quicker than Newcastle United and Bayer Leverkusen, both of whom had also shown interest. The Black Cats’ ability to offer a clear pathway into the first team under Régis Le Bris is believed to have been a key factor in the player’s preference.
With Thomas Meunier already through the door on a free transfer, securing Methalie would represent a significant statement of intent as Sunderland prepare for another Premier League campaign and European football.
Talks are expected to resume in the coming days. Whether Sunderland can close the valuation gap with Toulouse will determine if the deal can be completed before the window shuts.
