Veteran Belgian defender Thomas Meunier, 34, has signed a two-year contract with Premier League side Sunderland on a free transfer from Lille. The former Paris Saint-Germain player brings 83 caps worth of experience to the club, citing the opportunity to compete in the Premier League and Europe as major factors in his decision.

He was "hugely excited" to "begin a new chapter" after he signed for Premier League side Sunderland on a free transfer on Wednesday.

"I am hugely excited and honoured to join Sunderland," said Meunier in a statement on the Sunderland website.

"I'm very happy to be here and to begin this new chapter in my career.

"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 (the Europa League) 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."

Meunier, who won three Ligue 1 titles with Paris Saint-Germain during his spell there from 2016-2020, "brings a wealth of experience, leadership and professionalism", said Sunderland's director of football Florent Ghisolfi.

"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," added Ghisolfi.

"We believe he'll make an important contribution on and off the pitch, and we're excited to see him begin this new chapter with us.

"It feels like a great fit."

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