Sunderland are reportedly targeting a move for Rennes striker Matthis Abline.
The Black Cats are one of a number of clubs interested in signing the Frenchman, according to La Parisien. Reims, Strasbourg and Lorient have all been linked with Abline.
The forward enjoyed recent loan spells with Le Havre and Auxerre, where he scored nine goals across all competitions.
Abline struggled for regular game time for Rennes in the first half of last season, although he racked up appearances in the Europa League before they were knocked out by Shakhtar Donetsk.
The 20-year-old has five years remaining on his contract with Rennes but faces an uncertain future, two years after making his senior debut for Les Rennais.
The report claims that the Ligue 1 outfit would demand around £7 million for Abline, which would be one of the highest fees Sunderland have paid since they were relegated from the Premier League.
However, Tony Mowbray’s side may sit bottom of the list for Abline, who is reportedly eager to remain in France beyond the summer.
Sunderland need experience, not Matthis Abline
Sunderland were in desperate need of a new striker last season, as they relied heavily on Joe Gelhardt due to Ross Stewart’s long-term injury.
The Wearside club have already signed Luis Hemir Semedo this week – a young Portuguese striker from Benfica with bags of potential.
Similar to Abline, the 19-year-old hasn’t been given much of an opportunity so far but could certainly be one for the future.
Sunderland have already added a rising star to play back-up to Stewart, so do they really need another?
The Championship outfit will need a third forward if they are to have a more successful crack at winning promotion, but perhaps they should be looking for something a little older with more experience in the second tier.
The likes of Ellis Simms, Sam Surridge and Jerry Yates all look to be good options.
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