Sunderland complete the signing of Belgium international Thomas Meunier from a free transfer. Multiple outlets report that the 34-year-old defender joins the Championship club after his contract with Lille ends, making him available without a transfer fee. Sunderland announce that Meunier signs a two-year deal, and Yahoo Sports and The Guardian say he is “hugely excited” to begin a new chapter with the club. The Guardian adds that the chance to compete in Europe is a factor in the move, as Sunderland prepare for a second successive season in the Premier League alongside a Europa League campaign. Meunier is described across reports as an experienced member of Belgium’s “golden generation,” with his international background and recent tournament involvement referenced. BBC Sport and other sources note that Meunier has just returned from the World Cup, and Soccer News says he played for Belgium at the 2026 World Cup. The Guardian describes him as Sunderland’s first summer signing and notes he has been capped 83 times for Belgium. Overall, the reports agree on the contract length, free-transfer basis, and the player’s status as a senior Belgium defender arriving from Lille.