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Sunderland transfer news: Black Cats step up pursuit of Ligue 1 left back Sunderland are working hard in a bid to bolster their squad ahead of the new Premier League campaign Sunderland are stepping up their pursuit of Toulouse left back Dayann Methalie. The club’s interest in the 20-year-old was first reported last month and according to French outlet RMC, the Black Cats are now in advanced talks with the Ligue 1 club and have an agreement in place with the youngster himself. Methalie has had interest from a number of clubs following a breakout season in France where he featured regularly and established himself as one of the league’s brightest prospects. Methalie is an attacking full back who has regularly featured at wing back since his making his Toulouse debut. If the two clubs can agree a fee, with RMC reporting that a total package worth in the region of £25 million is being discussed, then Methalie will sign a five-year deal. The left side of defence has been a key focus for Sunderland in the current window, with Dennis Cirkin departing as a free agent earlier this summer. Arthur Masuaku is also widely expected to depart the club this summer and has interest from Turkish club Konyaspor. It leaves Sunderland and Régis Le Bris with Reinildo as their only recognised left back and though the experienced campaigner was a key player last season, the 32-year-old has now entered the second and last year of his current deal. The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel. Régis Le Bris’s Sunderland transfer message after Liverpool defeat It has been a quiet transfer window on Wearside so far, with key club figures stressing a desire for quality over quantity. Speaking after the club’s 4-2 defeat to Liverpool in Nashville over the weekend, Le Bris stressed that the club were working hard on additions behind the scenes but that it was imperative to work under the radar. Le Bris said: "It's going to be quiet, under the radar. I won't give you information! "I think we are working hard behind the scenes and it's really important to be quiet otherwise it's a mess. We are probably looking for a different transfer window if we compare with last season. We had to sign 14 new players, which won't be the case this year. We'll see what will happen." Your next Sunderland read: Premier League unveil plan to combat controversial goalkeeper tactic - what Sunderland fans need to know