Sunderland move to sign Dayann Methalie as Newcastle step back

Sunderland are set to complete the signing of Dayann Methalie from Toulouse after Newcastle elected not to pursue the defender this summer. The 20-year-old France Under-21s international is expected to cost around £26m.

Methalie, who has featured in 27 Ligue 1 matches across the last season, has been the subject of significant attention in the transfer market. Comfortable at left-back and as a wingback, he can also be deployed centrally, offering positional flexibility. He had been a long-term target for Newcastle, who scouted him extensively and reportedly made a move in January. Despite that prior interest, the Magpies have decided against signing the player and have not submitted a bid during the current window.

Sunderland now appear to be in the strongest position to conclude a deal, with Régis Le Bris now appears close to acquiring him for about £26m. The prospective fee would place Methalie within the sums usually associated with moves for emerging defenders this summer. Sunderland’s pursuit has intensified as other clubs moved on, leaving the path clearer for a transfer to be agreed.

Newcastle’s scouting activity around Methalie extended over a lengthy period and the club evaluated him as a potential addition earlier this year. The player was viewed as fitting the club’s new transfer strategy of signing young talents priced between £20m and £40m. Nevertheless, the decision was taken not to press ahead, and no offer has been lodged from Newcastle in this transfer window.

For Toulouse, the sale of a young first-team regular would represent the departure of a player who made 27 Ligue 1 appearances last season. Methalie’s versatility — able to operate at left-back, on the flank as a wingback and in central positions — has underpinned the wider interest he has attracted. That adaptability has made him an appealing prospect for clubs seeking defensive options with multiple roles.

The player’s age and international status with France Under-21s have contributed to his market appeal, and several clubs monitored his progress during the close season. Sunderland’s interest has become the most concrete approach reported, aligning with their recruitment objectives. With Newcastle stepping away, the transfer window may now deliver a move for Methalie to Wearside.

If the deal is completed for the reported fee, Methalie would join Sunderland as they bolster their defensive ranks while Newcastle continue to search for reinforcements elsewhere. The outcome will close a chapter of transfer speculation that linked the young France Under-21s defender with several clubs over recent months.