Thomas Meunier is closing in on a move to Sunderland, talkSPORT understands.
The Belgium right-back is set to undergo a medical after agreeing a two-year deal with the Black Cats.
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Meunier had been available on a free transfer following the expiry of his contract with French side Lille at the end of June.
Newly-promoted Hull City had also shown an interest in signing the 34-year-old.
However, Meunier’s preferred destination is the Stadium of Light.
The defender is understood to have already arrived in the North East to complete a medical before his move is officially announced.
Experienced addition
Meunier arrives fresh from featuring for Belgium at this summer’s World Cup.
He has 10 goals in 83 caps for his country and is a veteran of six major tournaments.
Meanwhile, at club level he has previously featured for Club Brugge, Paris Saint-Germain, Borussia Dortmund and Trabzonspor.
Overall, Meunier has already made 515 senior club appearances across his career.
He is now set to experience English football for the first time as a player.
In doing so, Meunier will become Regis Le Bris’ first signing of the summer.
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His side are currently preparing for their first European campaign for 53 years.
Sunderland will compete in the league phase of the Europa League after their seventh place finish in the Premier League last season.
It came in their first campaign back in the top-flight following an eight-year absence.
Seven years in the making
Meunier’s imminent arrival at Sunderland comes seven years after he mentioned the Black Cats in a viral social media post.
He had taken to Twitter in March 2019 ahead of their EFL Trophy final against Portsmouth.
Both sides were playing in League One at the time of their clash at Wembley Stadium.
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In the post, Meunier wrote: “Does someone have a streaming link for Portsmouth-Sunderland? Thanks.”
Sunderland went on to lose the match on penalties following a 2-2 draw after extra-time.
