The transfer of Dayann Methalie from Toulouse FC to Sunderland has ground to a halt after the French club rejected a revised loan proposal, with conflicting medical assessments of the defender’s back preventing the deal’s completion.
Conflicting Medical Verdicts
The 20-year-old left-back appeared set to join the English side following weeks of negotiations, with an agreement understood to be in place between the clubs. However, the customary medical examination revealed an abnormality in Methalie’s back, forcing Sunderland to pause their initial offer.
According to Toulouse’s medical staff, the problem is minor and would not impact the player’s availability. This assessment contrasts with Sunderland’s initial concerns that the condition might require a six-week treatment programme or risk further aggravation. The English club sought a second opinion from a Paris-based back specialist, who reportedly found no cause for alarm. Nevertheless, Sunderland remain unconvinced and have requested additional medical opinions before proceeding.
Loan Structure Rejected
Seeking to mitigate the risk, Sunderland proposed converting the permanent deal into a loan with an option to buy. Toulouse chairman Olivier Cloarec immediately rejected this alternative, expressing concerns about financial complications arising from the player’s entourage during a temporary arrangement.
Sunderland have disputed this version of events, denying the reported details of the negotiations.
Transfer Deadlock
Methalie, regarded as a rising talent, remains at Toulouse while the impasse continues. The disagreement leaves the defender’s immediate future uncertain, with both clubs needing to find common ground before the transfer window closes.