Sunderland close in on Methalie signing

Sunderland are closing in on the signing of Dayann Methalie from Toulouse after Newcastle decided against pursuing the £26m deal. The versatile France Under-21 defender, who can play left-back, wingback, or center, had been extensively scouted by Newcastle, who tried to sign him in January but have now indicated they won't be submitting a bid this summer.

Methalie, 20, made 27 Ligue 1 appearances for Toulouse last season and fits Newcastle's transfer policy of recruiting young players in the £20m-£40m price bracket. However, it appears Régis Le Bris's Sunderland are now favorites to secure his signature. biznow.biz