Monaco make first move for Nantes striker Matthis Abline
AS Monaco have submitted an opening offer to sign striker Matthis Abline from FC Nantes this summer, according to a report from L'Équipe. The bid is understood to be worth approximately 15 million euros, with an additional 5 million euros in potential bonuses. The offer has been rejected by Nantes, who are reportedly holding out for a fee closer to 40 million euros for their prized asset, who is under contract until June 2028.
The move signals Monaco's intent to act decisively in the transfer market ahead of an expected offensive overhaul. The Principality club anticipates the potential departure of several key attackers, including Maghnes Akliouche, Folarin Balogun, and possibly Aleksandr Golovin, and has identified Abline as a primary target. The 23-year-old forward has been on Monaco's recruitment radar since last summer, with his profile as a direct, pacy striker fitting the club's preferred style of play.
Abline's current season has been challenging, with five goals in 29 Ligue 1 appearances for a Nantes side battling to avoid relegation. This represents a drop from his output last term, when he scored nine league goals. Despite this dip in form, his age and potential continue to make him an attractive market opportunity. He has also demonstrated a particular knack for performing against Monaco, scoring against them last season and being directly involved in three goals during Nantes's 3-5 home defeat to Monaco earlier this campaign.
The French youth international was the subject of significant interest last summer, with Paris FC submitting a 25 million euro bid and Wolverhampton Wanderers going as high as 30 million euros. Nante's decision to block a move at that time, combined with the player's impending fatherhood, reportedly affected Abline's early-season form, leading to him starting the first three league matches on the bench under then-manager Luis Castro.
Monaco's current bid falls well short of Nantes's valuation, setting the stage for a potential negotiation. The large gap suggests Monaco may need to significantly improve their offer or explore structured payment terms to secure the player. For Nantes, the sale of Abline could provide crucial financial resources, especially if the club suffers relegation to Ligue 2. For Monaco, securing a young, versatile French attacker would be a proactive step in rebuilding their forward line for next season, regardless of their final European qualification status.
