Sunderland in advanced talks to sign £25m-rated star previously monitored by Newcastle United

Newcastle United transfers: Sunderland are closing in on a player previously linked with the Magpies.

Newcastle United’s fierce rivals Sunderland are closing in on a player previously monitored by the club.

Toulouse left-back Dayann Methalie was linked with Newcastle during the January transfer window as the club eyed defensive reinforcements amid an injury crisis.

The Magpies ultimately refrained from making a move for the youngster as Lewis Hall got back to fitness, and Lewis Miley briefly slotted in at right-back to temporarily address Eddie Howe’s full-back issues. The Gazette understands Newcastle have not reignited their interest in the France Under-21 international this summer and did not make a formal bid for the player.

Toulouse's French defender #24 Dayann Methalie controls the ball Toulouse's French defender #24 Dayann Methalie during the French L1 football match between Toulouse FC and Paris Saint-Germain at The TFC Stadium in Toulouse, southwestern France on August 30, 2025. (Photo by Lionel BONAVENTURE / AFP)placeholder image
Toulouse's French defender #24 Dayann Methalie controls the ball Toulouse's French defender #24 Dayann Methalie during the French L1 football match between Toulouse FC and Paris Saint-Germain at The TFC Stadium in Toulouse, southwestern France on August 30, 2025. (Photo by Lionel BONAVENTURE / AFP) | AFP via Getty Images

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But the 20-year-old has now been linked with a move to the North East once again, this time to Sunderland. According to French outlet RMC, the Black Cats are in advanced talks with Toulouse over a potential move for Methalie, who is valued at around £25million.

The defender had a breakthrough season for Toulouse in Ligue 1 in 2025/26, attracting plenty of interest in the process. The full-back area is one both Newcastle and Sunderland are looking to strengthen this summer after several departures in that area.

The Magpies have released Matt Targett, Emil Krafth and Kieran Trippier while Tino Livramento and Miley are currently unavailable due to injury. A full-back addition is one of Newcastle’s top transfer priorities this summer, but their preference is to strengthen with a versatile right-sided full-back.

Newcastle have signed midfielders Sean Steur and Aladji Bamba, winger Bazoumana Toure and goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen, but are yet to strengthen in defence.

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