AS Monaco are on the verge of completing a deal to sign Matthis Abline from FC Nantes, according to L'Équipe. The transfer is expected to be worth around €30 million, which would represent a club-record fee for Nantes, surpassing the €20 million received for Nathan Zézé’s move to Neom last summer.
Abline, who has a contract with Nantes until June 2028, has already agreed personal terms with Monaco, believing the project in the Principality offers the best path for his career progression. The 23-year-old forward endured a mixed season with Nantes, scoring six goals and providing three assists in Ligue 1, but ultimately suffered relegation to Ligue 2. He was left out of the Nantes squad for Tuesday’s friendly against La Roche, suggesting the transfer is nearing completion.
Monaco had been persistent in their pursuit of Abline, submitting multiple offers to Nantes over several months, with the first bid reportedly made in April. They have successfully fended off competition from Paris FC, who previously showed interest in the versatile attacker a year ago, and Crystal Palace, whose interest remained largely speculative.
Despite facing financial constraints and the need to sell players to balance their accounts – with Akliouche, Balogun, Camara and potentially Golovine among those who could depart – Monaco are still able to invest in targeted signings. The club are prioritizing strengthening their attacking options, with Abline identified as a key target, and finding a replacement for Maghnes Akliouche on the right wing. Monaco are also reportedly close to securing the signing of PSG target Khephren Thuram, with a fourth bid expected to approach the €50 million fixed fee demanded by the Monégasque club.
If the Abline deal is finalized, the former France youth international will sign a five-year contract with Monaco. The move provides Nantes with a significant financial boost and allows Abline the opportunity to rebuild his career in Ligue 1 with a club aiming for European qualification.
