Sources: Sunderland line up move for Dayann Methalie
Sunderland are lining up a move to sign Toulouse left-back Dayann Methalie this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
The Wearsiders are looking to bolster their options on the left side of defence and have identified the 20-year-old as a clear target.
Regis Le Bris and Co. view the starlet as a player with huge potential to develop in the future, and he has already represented France at U21 level.
The Black Cats are working to add young talent to their squad ahead of their Europa League campaign, and their search has seen them fix their eyes on Methalie.
He notched 28 appearances for Toulouse in Ligue 1 last term, and also added two goals and an assist to help his team in the top half of the table.
Methalie was a standout performer for his boyhood club, and may now get the chance to test himself in the Premier League in 2026-27.
Sunderland eye long-term left-back upgrade
Sunderland had to move quickly to strengthen their squad across the board following their promotion last summer, and they bolstered their squad with several experienced heads.
The veteran duo of Reinildo and Arthur Masuaku both arrived to cover the left-back role, but neither were handed long-term deals at the Stadium of Light.
The pair are both 32 at the moment, and with their contracts expiring in June 2027, neither are viewed as a long-term suitor for the position.
Instead, Sunderland are looking to recruit a younger option that they can work on and develop in the coming years, with Methalie identified for that role.
The Toulouse man endured a breakout campaign in Ligue 1 last term, and truly made his mark at senior level after coming through the academy.
Le Bris and his staff have kept a close eye on the French top-flight since their move to the North East, and feel that Methalie is a player capable of making the step up to the Premier League.
Sunderland have 'very clever' plan for rising stars
Former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness recently told Football Insider that Sunderland's strategy to utilise their U21 players in the Europa League this season is "very clever."
The Black Cats must ensure that eight homegrown players are named in their squad for the league phase, and are planning to push some of their brightest academy talents to be part of the squad.
Wyness believes it will provide invaluable experience for the youngsters, will also adding that it will save money for the club by not bringing in as many new signings.
Sunderland are trying to take a long-term vision after establishing themselves in the Premier League, and their interest in Methalie is another example of that.