Metz to rival Sunderland for Yann M’Vila signing | OneFootball

According to L’Équipe, FC Metz are set to rival EFL Championship side Sunderland for the signature of Yann M’Vila (33), who has been a free agent since the expiry of his contract at Olympiacos at the end of last season.

Foot Mercato reported earlier this month that M’Vila was a priority signing for Sunderland. The Frenchman previously spent a season with the Black Cats, which clearly made an impression, with the midfielder willing to make sacrifices to return to the English club.

“I don’t need the money, I just want to play, but not in Ligue 2, or in lower divisions, apart from Sunderland, in order to help them get back to the Premier League. I had an extraordinary year there,” he told Le Progrès.

Whilst the path leading M’Vila back to Wearside is seemingly still clear, Metz are now set to rival Sunderland for M’Vila’s signature. Les Grenats have identified M’Vila as a key target. Sporting director Pierre Dréossi, who knows the player from the pair’s time together at Stade Rennais, is a fan of his profile, as well as his experience, which could be crucial in helping the club stave off a relegation to Ligue 2.

However, Metz must still find an agreement on personal terms with M’Vila, which for a club with as limited means as Les Grenats, is by no means a given.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle