adminShould everything proceed smoothly, fans might even see Methalie make an appearance in Sunderland’s season opener against newly promoted Ipswich Town at Portman Road on Saturday, August 22.
The Frenchman is expected to put pen to paper on a five-year contract at the Stadium of Light, becoming Régis Le Bris’s second summer signing—and the first to command a transfer fee.
Thomas Meunier, who joined as a free agent last month following his departure from Lille at the end of the 2025/26 season, made a strong impression in his unofficial debut against Lens over the weekend.
Methalie’s arrival is a crucial boost for the Red and White Army, given the shortage of left-back options heading into a campaign that will see Sunderland juggle Premier League duties, domestic cups, and Europa League football.
While Reinildo has shone during pre-season, the Black Cats have little cover for the 32-year-old, who cannot be expected to feature in every match this season.
Dennis Cirkin left the club as a free agent this summer, ending a five-year spell on Wearside, while Leo Hjelde also departed for KV Mechelen for an undisclosed fee.
Luke O’Nien has shown his value at left-back in the past, but the utility man now appears to have settled into a more permanent role at centre-half.
And although Trai Hume is capable of filling in on the left, his best performances have historically come from the right flank.
Methalie’s signing should resolve that positional puzzle—provided both he and Reinildo stay fit throughout the coming season.
Still, other areas require attention before the transfer window closes next month.
With Omar Alderete and Nordi Mukiele missing Saturday’s pre-friendly against Rennes, Sunderland may look to add further depth at centre-half.
Concerns also persist on the wings, particularly with Simon Adingra’s future at the Stadium of Light uncertain and last season’s output proving inconsistent.
While names like Geny Catamo and Matías Soulé have been linked with moves, Romaine Mundle is currently in contract negotiations with Sunderland over an extended stay—and could already offer a solution on the flanks, provided he enjoys an injury-free season to continue his development.
Meanwhile, Eliezer Mayenda has yet to be replaced following his £21.5 million transfer to Rennes last month, leaving Brian Brobbey and Wilson Isidor as the club’s only senior out-and-out strikers.
It remains to be seen whether Le Bris will be given a new attacking option to compete for a starting spot up front before next weekend’s Premier League kickoff.
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