(Credit: FC Nantes on YouTube, Imago)

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Tue 31 March 2026 11:33, UK

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Newcastle United are plotting a move to sign Nantes striker Matthis Abline as they look to bolster their attacking options, sources have told Football Insider.

The 23-year-old was subject to late interest from the Magpies on transfer deadline day during last summer’s window, and they have continued to keep tabs on him.

Abline, who can play anywhere across the front line, has scored seven goals and provided six assists in 27 appearances for Nantes in all competitions this season.

Newcastle have made the addition of a new striker their top priority ahead of the summer transfer window, and the France Under-21 international is on their list of targets.

His current contract at Nantes is set to run until 2028, but there is a feeling he could be sold for the right price as Newcastle accelerate their transfer plans.

Why do Newcastle want to sign Matthis Abline?

Football Insider exclusively revealed last month that Newcastle are prioritising signing a goalscorer and are working to identify leading candidates for the role.

Eddie Howe has been keen to improve his attacking options since Alexander Isak left in a British-record move to Liverpool last summer.

The additions of Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade have left plenty to be desired, with the Magpies’ transfer team instructed to keep tabs on alternative targets.

Abline’s form for Nantes across the last two seasons has placed him firmly on Newcastle’s radar, and they may now be prepared to act on their long-term interest.

Scouts have been keeping a close eye on his performances in Ligue 1 this season, and with his club currently in the relegation zone, he could be lured away.

What is next for Wissa and Woltemade at Newcastle?

With the Magpies accelerating efforts to sign a new striker, and Abline one of many names on their list of targets, questions have been asked about their current options.

Given Howe’s frustrations at how both have performed this season, there is a growing feeling Newcastle could be prepared to accept offers for their strikers.

However, former Everton CEO Keith Wyness told Football Insider that Newcastle could struggle to sell Wissa and Woltemade as they are struggling to attract buyers.

Newcastle spent over £100million to bring both Woltemade and Wissa to the North East last summer following the departure of Isak to Liverpool.

This may cause difficulties in their efforts to move them on, as the club’s financial situation means they will want to at least break even on the pair.