'I know how ambitious the club is' - Methalie 'excited' by Sunderland

[Getty Images] Sunderland's second summer signing Dayann Methalie says he "can't wait to pull on the shirt" after making the "easy decision" to pen a long-term contract at the Stadium of Light. The 20-year-old left-back, who came through Toulouse's youth set-up, broke into their first team last season and made his Ligue 1 debut against Nice in August 2025. Methalie made 30 appearances in all competitions last season as Toulouse recorded a ninth-place league finish and reached the French Cup semi-finals. "I'm really excited to be here," Methalie, who will wear the number six shirt, said. "This is a brilliant time to join the club. "I followed Sunderland's progress last season and it was incredible to see the team finish seventh in the Premier League and qualify for the Europa League. "When I heard about the opportunity to come here, it was an easy decision. I know how ambitious the club is and I want to help the team continue to progress and give the supporters plenty to be proud about." Director of Football Florent Ghisolfi said: "He is a player we have appreciated and followed for a long time. We believe his qualities are very well suited to Sunderland, both in terms of our football identity and the personality within the group. "Despite his young age, he has already shown a lot of quality and potential. His performances over the past year have naturally attracted interest from several clubs, however he showed a very strong desire to join Sunderland."