AS Monaco have submitted an opening bid to FC Nantes to sign Matthis Abline (23), according to L’Equipe. The outlet understands that Les Monégasques‘ bid rises to €15m and includes a further €5m in performance-related add-ons.
Nantes have reportedly rejected Monaco’s bid as they intend to receive close to double what ASM could be offering, although Les Canaris could be in no position to get greedy considering they are very likely now to feature in Ligue 2 next season. After losing to Brittany rivals Rennes this Sunday, Les Canaris remain five points adrift to 16th-placed Auxerre with three games left to play.
L’Equipe reports that, with or without European qualification, AS Monaco have a busy summer transfer window on their hands with Maghnes Akliouche and Folarin Balogun all expected to depart. Their early interest in Abline probably means they intend to get ahead of the pack of teams who also hold an interest in the 23-year-old Stade Rennais Academy graduate.