Sunderland failed with a slow move to sign Nantes striker Mattis Ablin on the deadline.
A report from France’s Outlet Oost France via Emmanuel Merceron shows that both Sunderland and Newcastle United have expressed interest in the 22-year-old forward during the final hours of their transfer period. However, neither club had filed an official offer and this move never really happened.
Sunderland made a slow push and Newcastle enquired. Abline is also linked to Leeds United.
Sunderland is passionate about Mattis Ablin
Abline has been on Sunderland’s radar for a while, with sports director Kristjaan Speakman and head coach Regis Le Bri looking to add an offensive option before the transfer deadline.
The Black Cat had previously received offers in a rejected area of £17.25 million to players, but Nantes was believed to be postponing it at a rate close to £43.3 million. Other stakeholders include Marseille, Lille and Newcastle.
The striker ran a breakthrough campaign last season, scoring nine goals in League One, playing a key role in the French Under-21 team, and advanced to the European Championship semi-finals.
He is definitely a talented young player with a bright future. He may have been a quality long-term investment for Sunderland. They have secured promotions to the Premier League and they want to stay on top flights. Quality is required to fit into the elite club.
Newcastle wanted to sign abline
Meanwhile, Newcastle also needed a deep attack. They were able to sign two quality strikers before the windows closed, but the young French would have been a great investment too. It will be interesting to see if any of the two Premier League clubs have decided to return for players in the near future. The asking price seems to be very expensive and Nantes may have to be more reasonable at their request.
