Sunderland have completed the signing of vastly experienced full-back Thomas Meunier.
Meunier joins the Black Caps on a free transfer after his contract at Lille expired at the end of last season.
The 34-year-old has over 550 senior club appearances to his name after spells at the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Club Brugge and Borussia Dortmund as well as 83 caps for Belgium.
Meunier appeared three times for the Red Devils at the 2026 World Cup and will add vital know-how to a Sunderland squad embarking on their first European season in 53 years.
He told the club’s official website: “I am hugely excited and honoured to join Sunderland.
”I’m very happy to be here and to begin this new chapter in my career. The Premier League is one of the most competitive and exciting leagues in the world, and it’s a challenge I’ve wanted to experience.
“When I spoke with the club, I was impressed by the ambition, the project and the desire to keep moving forward. Competing in Europe was also a big factor in my decision because, as a player, you always want to test yourself against the best teams and compete for trophies.”
Meunier hoping to use his experience at Sunderland
Meunier, who has signed a two-year deal at the Stadium of Light and will compete with Trai Hume for the right-back slot, added: “I hope I can bring my experience to the squad, both on and off the pitch.
“I’ve been fortunate to play in some fantastic teams throughout my career, and now I’m looking forward to giving everything for this club, helping my team-mates and building a strong connection with the supporters.
“I can’t wait to get started, meet everyone and play my first match in front of the fans.”
Meunier is a ‘great fit’ for Sunderland says Ghisolfi
Meunier is Sunderland’s first signing of the summer as the Wearsiders look to build on last season’s seventh-placed finish in the Premier League.
The club’s director of football Florent Ghisolfi said: “We are delighted to welcome Thomas to Sunderland AFC – from the moment we started speaking, we felt he had a very positive feeling about the club.
“Throughout his career he has consistently performed at the highest level, representing some of Europe’s biggest clubs, and Belgium on the international stage.
“He brings a wealth of experience, leadership and professionalism, alongside real quality in both defensive and attacking phases of the game.
“Thomas is a player who understands what it takes to compete for success, and we’re confident his mentality and character will have a positive influence on the squad.
“We believe he’ll make an important contribution on and off the pitch, and we’re excited to see him begin this new chapter with us. It feels like a great fit.”
