French football is set to lose another rising star. Following prolonged discussions, Toulouse FC and Sunderland have reached a complete agreement for the departure of left-back Dayann Methalie during the summer transfer window. The French club initially rejected an offer of around €33 million for their young defender earlier this week but has since accepted a revised proposal of approximately €30 million, including potential bonuses.

A restructured bonus package and a higher fixed transfer fee enabled Toulouse FC—led by President Kyril Louis-Dreyfus—to conclude the deal with the English side for the 20-year-old left-footer. Methalie is expected to travel to England on Saturday to complete his medical ahead of the move.

Methalie: A promising young talent poised for success

As reported at the end of July, Dayann Methalie has already agreed to a five-year contract with Sunderland. A product of Toulouse’s youth academy, the young international has earned four caps for the French under-21 team and delivered a standout season with the Violets.

The €30 million deal for Methalie marks another substantial transfer for Toulouse, following the €32 million sale of Brazilian midfielder Emersonn to Ipswich Town.

Operating as a left-back or wing-back, Methalie made 30 appearances in all competitions during the 2025-2026 season, contributing two goals and two assists in Ligue 1. Despite interest from several overseas clubs this summer, the young Frenchman was swayed by Sunderland’s ambitious project under manager Régis Le Bris, which prioritizes attacking football.