Sunderland are closing in on their first transfer breakthrough with Thomas Meunier’s medical planned today
Sunderland are closing in on their first transfer breakthrough of the summer, with Belgium international Thomas Meunier due on Wearside to complete a medical.
The Echo understands Meunier is expected in Sunderland today after a two-year agreement was reached with the 34-year-old right-back. Providing there are no late complications, he is expected to put pen to paper within the next 24 hours.
The Athletic first reported that Meunier had flown into Newcastle on Tuesday morning ahead of completing the formalities of his move to the Stadium of Light.
Meunier is available on a free transfer following the expiry of his contract with French side Lille, where he spent the 2025-26 campaign. His arrival would represent Sunderland’s first senior signing of the summer and add considerable experience to Régis Le Bris’ squad ahead of the club’s return to European football.
The defender has enjoyed a distinguished career, representing Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund as well as Club Brugge, Trabzonspor and Lille. He also has Champions League experience and has been capped more than 60 times by Belgium.
Meunier began his career further forward before establishing himself as a right-back, with his attacking qualities and ability to contribute in the final third remaining a feature of his game. He won domestic honours in Belgium and France, including league titles with Club Brugge and PSG.
Sunderland already have Trai Hume as an established option on the right side of defence, but Meunier’s expected arrival would provide Le Bris with another experienced and tactically flexible option. Hume has also been used in a more advanced role, meaning the Belgian could help create greater variety within the Black Cats’ system.
The move would also continue Sunderland’s recent policy of adding proven senior figures alongside the younger core of their squad. Granit Xhaka’s influence last season underlined the value of that experience, particularly during a demanding Premier League campaign.
Meunier’s medical is now the final major hurdle before the deal can be formally completed and announced. Sunderland will hope to conclude the move swiftly as preparations continue for their opening pre-season friendly away to York City.
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