Sunderland have agreed a £25.6m fee to sign left-back Dayann Methalie from Toulouse.
The 20-year-old French defender is expected to undergo a medical after a verbal agreement was reached for an initial £23.9m, with a further £1.7m in potential add-ons. This major transfer boost comes as Sunderland look to strengthen their defence before the start of their Premier League campaign against Ipswich Town next Saturday.
Methalie made 28 appearances for Toulouse in Ligue 1 last season, scoring twice in his final three games, as they finished ninth. His performances will be a welcome addition to Sunderland's squad, which is also competing in Europe for the first time in 53 years.
Regis Le Bris' side has been on the lookout for a reliable left-back, and Methalie's signing could provide the necessary depth to their squad. The deal follows a prolonged pursuit by Sunderland, and the club will be hoping that Methalie can make an immediate impact.
Belgium right-back Thomas Meunier remains the only completed transfer so far in the window for Sunderland. However, Methalie's signing suggests that the Black Cats are serious about bolstering their defence ahead of the new season.
Sunderland's European campaign will provide a new challenge for the team, and Methalie's experience in Ligue 1 could be invaluable. The French defender has already represented his country at under-21 level, with four caps to his name.
The signing of Methalie is a significant coup for Sunderland, and it will be interesting to see how he adapts to the Premier League. The medical will likely take place in the coming days, with the transfer expected to be completed soon after.
Sunderland's fans will be eagerly anticipating the arrival of Methalie, who is expected to bring a new level of quality to the team's defence. The Black Cats will be hoping that he can make an instant impact and help them achieve success in their European campaign.
Source: Yahoo Sports