Sunderland defender Thomas Meunier has publicly denied claims that he was close to joining Marseille before signing for the Black Cats, insisting there was never an agreement with the Ligue 1 club.
The Belgium international responded directly to speculation on social media, making it clear that Sunderland were always his preferred destination.
Meunier responds to transfer rumours
The debate began after reports from France suggested Meunier had reached an agreement with Marseille before opting to join Sunderland because the French club were unable to complete the deal due to financial issues.
"I never had an agreement, nothing at all."
His response appears intended to end suggestions that Sunderland were merely a backup option this summer.
Sunderland were the priority
The experienced full-back completed a free transfer to the Stadium of Light after leaving Lille.
At 34, Meunier brings significant experience to Régis Le Bris' squad, having previously represented Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund, Trabzonspor and Lille.
His move to Sunderland also fulfils a long-standing ambition to play in the Premier League after years of being linked with English clubs.
Veteran arrives on another free transfer
Meunier's move continues a remarkable trend in his career.
Since leaving Paris Saint-Germain in 2020, every transfer has come as a free agent, with Borussia Dortmund, Trabzonspor, Lille and now Sunderland all signing him without paying a transfer fee.
The last club to pay for the Belgian defender was PSG, who signed him from Club Brugge for around €6 million in 2016.
Key Points
- Thomas Meunier has denied reports he agreed to join Marseille.
- The Sunderland defender insists there was "never an agreement" with the French club.
- Meunier joined the Black Cats on a free transfer after leaving Lille.
- The 34-year-old says Sunderland were his priority destination.
- It is the fourth consecutive free transfer of his career.
What's Next?
Meunier will continue his preparations for the new Premier League season as Sunderland look to benefit from the defender's vast experience. His public response appears to draw a line under speculation surrounding his transfer, with the Belgian making it clear his focus is fully on life at the Stadium of Light.
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