Sunderland defender Dayann Methalie has admitted he feared his summer move from Toulouse could collapse after a medical examination uncovered a potential problem.
The 20-year-old eventually completed his transfer on 21 August, following weeks of difficult negotiations between the two clubs.
Speaking to French newspaper L'Equipe, Methalie revealed how doctors reassured him before Sunderland finally completed the deal.
Methalie feared Sunderland transfer could collapse
Sunderland identified Methalie as a target after his breakthrough at Toulouse, where he made 31 senior appearances.
The Black Cats agreed personal terms with the Frenchman in July but struggled to reach an agreement over his transfer fee.
Toulouse reportedly rejected several offers, including bids worth €20million and €25million, before negotiations eventually progressed.
However, another complication emerged when Sunderland's medical team identified an issue during his examination.
Methalie returned to France while further assessments took place.
“I was a little scared when they told me about this problem, but they quickly reassured me,” he explained.
According to the defender, three doctors examined him and reached the same conclusion: “It’s nothing serious.”
Sunderland subsequently completed the signing, ending Methalie's 11-year association with Toulouse.
Sunderland project convinced French defender
Despite the uncertainty, Methalie insists he never lost interest in joining Régis Le Bris' side.
“In my mind, it was Sunderland; I was focused on this project that excited me.”
The France Under-21 international admitted the experience taught him valuable lessons about the pressures of the transfer market.
He has since begun adapting to English football, making his Sunderland debut in an EFL Cup victory over Hull City.
Methalie then played the full 90 minutes during Sunderland's 5-3 Premier League defeat to Manchester City.
Reflecting on that demanding league debut, he acknowledged making a mistake after becoming overly confident but said he remained focused.
“I’ll remember that intense debut.”
Key Points
- Dayann Methalie has revealed his Sunderland transfer was threatened by a medical concern.
- Three doctors subsequently reassured the defender that the issue was not serious.
- Sunderland completed his permanent move from Toulouse on 21 August.
- The 20-year-old says he remained committed to joining Régis Le Bris' team throughout negotiations.
- Methalie has already made his Premier League debut against Manchester City.
What's Next?
Methalie will look to establish himself in Sunderland's defence after his first appearances in English football. His continued involvement with France Under-21s also offers opportunities to build experience as he adapts to the Premier League.
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