Belgian defender Meunier joins Sunderland on free transfer ahead of new season

Belgian defender Thomas Meunier, 34, has signed a two‑year contract with English Premier League club Sunderland on a free transfer after leaving Ligue 1 side Lille. Meunier, who earned 83 caps for Belgium and was part of the squad that reached the 2026 World Cup quarter‑finals, said he is "hugely excited and honoured to join Sunderland" and eager to begin a new chapter in his career. He cited the Premier League’s competitiveness, his desire to play in Europe’s Europa League, and the club’s ambition as key factors in his decision.

Sunderland’s director of football, Florent Ghisolfi, praised Meunier’s experience, leadership and professionalism, saying the veteran brings a winning mentality that will benefit the squad both on and off the pitch. Meunier previously won three Ligue 1 titles with Paris Saint‑Germain between 2016 and 2020 and has played club football in Belgium, Germany, Turkey and France.

For Nigerian football fans, the move highlights the continued appeal of the English Premier League as a destination for experienced European players and shows how clubs outside the traditional elite are strengthening their squads. It also serves as a reminder that free‑transfer veterans can still make an impact, a point relevant when scouting or supporting Nigerian players aiming for European clubs.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/07/15/belgian-defender-meunier-signs-for-epl-side-sunderland/