Plottwist: Sunderland secure Meunier as Valencia hopes fade

Thomas Meunier, the 34‑year‑old Belg, appears set to extend his career at Sunderland after a surprise twist in his transfer saga. The move was confirmed today at 14:09, with the former Lille defender passing his medical in Newcastle.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Meunier has reached an agreement with the Premier League‑club, ending weeks of speculation linking him with a Spanish move. The report described the deal as a "Plottwist" after the earlier consensus that Valencia would be his destination.

Meunier touched down in Newcastle on Tuesday and successfully completed the required medical examinations. The former Lille player is now poised to sign a contract lasting two seasons with the English side.

Having left Lille on a free transfer when his contract expired this summer, the experienced right‑back will join Sunderland without a transfer fee. The Belg’s availability was a key factor in Sunderland’s swift action.

The Spanish club Valencia had been the favourite to sign the 83‑time Belgisch international, with the Spaanse side viewing him as the ideal reinforcement for the right‑back position. Their interest was widely reported throughout the week.

Sunderland’s last‑minute signing caught many observers off guard, as the club secured Meunier’s signature just as Valencia’s pursuit waned. De unexpected turn highlights the club’s ambition in the Premier League.

Meunier’s résumé includes spells at Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund, with Lille being his most recent club before the free‑agent move. The veteran has accumulated extensive experience across Europe’s top leagues.

At the WK, the right‑back logged minutes against Egypte, Iran and Senegal, before taking a place on the bench for the quarter‑final against Spanje. His international pedigree adds depth to Sunderland’s defensive options.