Some have theorized that AC's acquisition for Transat was for their Airbus orders, not the airline. Since if they inherit those orders, they can order more, while still being able to justify why they went with Airbus instead and won't hurt their, in my opinion, pretty good relationship with Boeing.

AC originally went with MAX over the 320neos for their renewal plan, however, with the MAX's future uncertain, it doesn't surprise me they are in a rush to fill the demand of the retiring 767s, after repeatedly pushing back their retirement due to unforeseen events.