Wolverhampton Wanderers are setting their sights on Nantes’ dynamic forward Matthis Abline, a 22-year-old France U21 international dubbed a “killer” by The Telegraph’s John Percy, as they seek to replace the departed Matheus Cunha. With Cunha’s £60 million move to Manchester United and Rayan Ait-Nouri’s £33.5 million transfer to Manchester City leaving Wolves with significant funds, manager Vitor Pereira is eyeing Abline to bolster the attack. The Ligue 1 star’s 11 goals in 34 appearances last season, including nine in the 2024-25 campaign, have made him a prime target for Wolves, who are looking to maintain their attacking edge in a crucial Premier League season.
Abline’s versatility to play across the front line, combined with his clinical finishing, makes him an ideal fit for Pereira’s high-pressing system. His 45 caps and 22 goals for France’s youth teams highlight his pedigree, while his role in keeping Nantes three points clear of the Ligue 1 relegation play-off zone last season underscores his ability to perform under pressure. Wolves, who have already spent £60 million on signings like Fer Lopez, Jhon Arias, and David Moller Wolfe, see Abline as a cost-effective option at an estimated £20 million, especially after failing to secure other targets like Espanyol’s Omar El Hilali. However, competition from Sunderland, Burnley, and Brentford, the latter seeking a replacement for Yoane Wissa, could complicate negotiations.
The urgency to sign a new forward is heightened by Wolves’ lackluster pre-season, including a 3-0 defeat to Newcastle, exposing their need for attacking depth alongside Jorgen Strand Larsen, who notched 14 top-flight goals last term. Abline’s modest 19 appearances during his time at Rennes, coupled with loan spells at Auxerre and Le Havre, suggest untapped potential that Pereira believes can flourish in the Premier League. His ability to exploit spaces, evidenced by 1.2 shots on target per 90 minutes, aligns with Wolves’ aim to rebuild a squad capable of avoiding another relegation scrap after finishing 14th last season.
As the September 1 transfer deadline looms, Wolves are pushing to finalize a deal for Abline, with Percy noting the club’s active discussions with Nantes. The potential signing would mark a bold statement of intent for Pereira, whose side faces a daunting opener against Manchester City on August 16. With funds still available from their summer sales, Wolves have the financial muscle to outbid rivals, but time is of the essence. Fans at Molineux are hopeful that Abline’s arrival could ignite a new era, providing the “killer” instinct needed to propel the team up the Premier League table.[](https://www.givemesport.com/john-percy-wolves-want-transfer-premier-league-forward/)
