Sunderland have signed Belgium defender Thomas Meunier on a two-year deal following his departure from French side Lille.

The 34-year-old has made more than 550 senior club appearances and previously had spells with Club Brugge, Paris St-Germain, where he won three league titles, Borussia Dortmund and Turkish side Trabzonspor.

He also has 83 international caps and played for Belgium at the 2026 World Cup.

Meunier is the Black Cats’ first signing of the season after the departures of forward Eliezer Mayenda and midfielder Dan Neil.

“We are delighted to welcome Thomas to Sunderland,” said director of football Florent Ghisolfi.

“From the moment we started speaking, we felt he had a very positive feeling about the club.

“Throughout his career he has consistently performed at the highest level, representing some of Europe’s biggest clubs, and Belgium on the international stage.

“He brings a wealth of experience, leadership and professionalism, alongside real quality in both defensive and attacking phases of the game.

“Thomas is a player who understands what it takes to compete for success, and we’re confident his mentality and character will have a positive influence on the squad.”

Meunier, who will link up with the rest of the Sunderland squad in early August, is excited about the prospect of representing the club both in domestic competition and as they compete in Europe for the first time in 53 years.

“I’m very happy to be here and to begin this new chapter in my career,” he said. “The Premier League is one of the most competitive and exciting leagues in the world, and it’s a challenge I’ve wanted to experience.

“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 because, as a player, you always want to test yourself against the best teams and compete for trophies.

“I hope I can bring my experience to the squad, both on and off the pitch.”