Former Paris Saint-Germain full-back Thomas Meunier has officially signed for Premier League outfit Sunderland on a free transfer after his contract with Lille came to an end. The seasoned Belgium international has agreed to a two-year deal under manager Regis Le Bris, bringing with him extensive European experience and a history of success to the Stadium of Light.

Sunderland have completed their first signing of the summer window by securing the services of Meunier. The 34-year-old right-back joins as a free agent following the expiry of his Lille contract, continuing a pattern in his career after previous free transfers from Paris Saint-Germain to Borussia Dortmund in 2020.

Meunier, who boasts 83 international caps for Belgium and recently featured at the World Cup, has enjoyed an accomplished club career. His standout period was with Club Brugge, where he tallied 198 appearances, netted 20 goals, and captured both a Belgian league title and a domestic cup before moving to France in a €6 million deal.

Speaking on his move, Meunier shared his excitement: “I’m hugely excited and honoured to join Sunderland. 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. I hope I can bring my experience to the squad, both on and off the pitch.”

During his time at PSG, Meunier enjoyed a trophy-rich spell, claiming three French league titles and scoring 13 goals in 128 appearances. He later added a German Cup win with Borussia Dortmund, where he scored three goals in 83 matches, before registering four goals in 81 outings for Lille.

Meunier’s arrival significantly strengthens Sunderland’s defensive depth, as he brings with him an impressive record that includes three French Cups, three French League Cups, and three French Super Cups from his Paris Saint-Germain tenure. Across his European career, he has accumulated 43 Champions League appearances and 33 in the Europa League.

Standing tall and physically strong, Meunier combines defensive solidity with an attacking edge from the right flank. Within Le Bris’s tactical framework, he is expected to challenge Trai Hume for a starting berth. His inclusion could also allow Nordi Mukiele to shift from right-back into a central defensive role, providing more flexibility in Sunderland’s backline.

Looking ahead, Meunier will immediately join first-team training as Sunderland complete their preparations for the upcoming Premier League season. Supporters will be eager to see if Le Bris includes him in the lineup for the opening match. His wealth of European experience and winning mentality are also expected to be crucial as Sunderland embark on their much-anticipated Europa League campaign.